Diya Upreti, Jadetimes Staff
Diya Upreti is a Jadetimes news reporter covering health news
Regular Salt Swapped with Substitutes May Reduced a Risk of Recurrent Stroke and Death
Cardiovascular diseases, including strokes and heart attacks, still happen to account for some of the top causes of death worldwide during the last couple of decades. Though medication and medical interventions help in treatment, lifestyle and diet-based interventions can be equally influential in preventing and managing such conditions. A recently published study has highlighted a relatively simple yet potent dietary modification—substituting regular salt with salt substitutes—and significantly reducing the risk of recurrent stroke and death.
Understanding the Role of Salt in Cardiovascular Health
Salt is made up of mostly sodium chloride. It is one of the many minerals that have a role to play in numerous bodily functions such as nerve impulses and fluid balance. However, excessive sodium has been associated with high blood pressure, which itself is a strong risk factor for strokes, heart attacks, and kidney disease. The World Health Organization recommends that the daily intake of sodium be no more than 2,300 mg per day, which is an amount equivalent to about one teaspoon of salt. Most people are exceeding this amount.
What Are Salt Substitutes?
Salt substitutes are alternatives that contain a reduced amount of sodium, replacing part of it with potassium, magnesium, or other minerals. Common salt substitutes include potassium chloride-based products, which can provide a salty taste without the harmful effects of excessive sodium. Potassium is known to counteract the negative effects of sodium by helping to relax blood vessels and lower blood pressure.
The Link Between Salt Substitutes and Stroke Prevention
A recent study conducted by researchers who analyzed the dietary patterns of people and the outcomes in health showed that replacing regular salt with salt substitutes was associated with reduced recurrence of stroke and mortality rates. The researchers found that if sodium intake was reduced and potassium intake increased, then blood pressure levels would go down, reducing the strain on the cardiovascular system.
One of the most important findings of the study was that even those who had a history of stroke or heart disease showed significant improvements by adopting this single dietary change. Salt substitute users had a 15-20% lower risk of recurrent strokes and a 10% reduction in overall mortality compared to those who continued using regular salt.
Other Health Benefits of Salt Substitutes
Besides lowering the risk of strokes and death, salt substitutes may also provide other health benefits:
Better Blood Pressure Control: Salt alternatives rich in potassium help to balance sodium's effects, thus reducing hypertension.
Better Kidney Function: Lower sodium intake prevents excessive strain on the kidneys, reducing the risk of chronic kidney disease.
Reduced Risk of Heart Failure: Lowering sodium and increasing potassium levels support overall heart function and circulation.
Considerations and Potential Risks
While salt substitutes are beneficial in general, they are not suitable for all. Those suffering from kidney diseases or who take medications that interfere with potassium levels, like some blood pressure medicines, must seek their doctor's advice before a change in diet.
Potassium levels higher than normal, a condition known as hyperkalemia, is dangerous and very risky, especially for people with impaired kidneys.
Simple changes, such as switching from regular salt to salt substitutes, can have a major impact on health, especially in people who are at risk of stroke and cardiovascular disease. The more evidence there is for dietary change, the more health experts recommend potassium-enriched alternatives as part of a balanced diet that is heart-healthy. However, a doctor's consultation is necessary before making any change, especially in people with existing health conditions.
Making informed diet decisions can therefore ensure that a step is being made toward healthy heart and longer lifespan.
Comentários