The researchers recorded participants’ blood pressure after one week on a low-sodium diet, meaning meals, snacks, and drinks containing about one teaspoon less salt (2.3 grams of sodium) than their regular diet. This value was compared to the participants’ blood pressure after consuming a high-sodium diet for one week. For almost three-quarters of participants, a low-salt diet lowered their blood pressure.
As a result of that diet, on average, systolic blood pressure This was 8 mmHg (millimeters of mercury, a measure of blood pressure) lower than the systolic blood pressure recorded after a high-sodium meal and 6 mmHg lower than the systolic blood pressure recorded after a normal meal.
Systolic blood pressure (the top (or first) number on a blood pressure reading) represents the force your heart generates when it beats, pushing blood into your arteries. The researchers wrote that their results “demonstrate a clinically meaningful reduction in blood pressure.” [blood pressure] Dietary salt reduction can be achieved safely and quickly within a week. ”
High blood pressure increases your risk of heart disease, heart attack, and stroke, but it also increases your chances of developing a variety of health problems, including kidney disease, vision problems, sexual dysfunction, and peripheral artery disease. Almost half of US adults According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, approximately 120 million people have high blood pressure or are taking medications to treat it.
This article is part of the Post’s “Big Number” series, which briefly examines the statistical aspects of health issues. Additional information and related research is available via hyperlinks.