Describe the relationship between salt intake and blood pressure. Who is at greatest risk for adverse effects from excessive sodium intakes?


The relationship between salt intake and blood pressure is direct—as chronic sodium intakes increase, blood pressure rises in a stepwise fashion. Once hypertension sets in, the risk of death from stroke and heart disease climbs steeply. High intakes of salt among the world's people correlate with high rates of hypertension, heart disease, and strokes. Over time, a high-salt diet may damage the linings of blood vessels in ways that make hypertension likely to develop. People who need to reduce their blood pressure for their health's sake are urged to cut their sodium intake. People with hypertension, diabetes, or chronic kidney disease should take in no more than 1,500 milligrams per day because this level of restriction often lowers blood pressure. Even without meeting the recommended levels, reducing sodium by at least 1,000 milligrams per day reduces blood pressure. This is a worthy goal—hypertension is a leading cause of death and disability in this country.

Nutritional Science

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Indicate whether the statement is true or false.

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a. 20 b. 30 c. 50 d. 60 e. 70

Nutritional Science

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Nutritional Science