In a nutshell
This study investigated the effects of dietary factors on the relationship between salt intake and hypertension. The study concluded that the association between salt intake and hypertension is not influenced by any other dietary factor.
Some background
Managing hypertension (high blood pressure) can be achieved using a number of strategies including medication and lifestyle adjustments. Improving the diet by reducing salt intake is recommended for all patients with hypertension.
The link between salt intake and hypertension has been established for some time. However, there is some disagreement amongst doctors as to how important salt intake is. There is a suggestion that other dietary factors (macro/micronutrients) may impact the effects of salt on blood pressure levels. However there is little evidence on the impact of dietary factors on salt intake in patients with hypertension.
Methods & findings
This study investigated if macro/micronutrients have any effect on the relationship between salt intake and blood pressure levels in patients with hypertension.
This study included data from 6875 patients with hypertension. At each clinic visit patients were asked for their dietary information and blood pressure was measured. This was performed twice on two consecutive days and twice again approximately 3 weeks later. Patients also provided a urine sample that was used to measure urinary sodium (salt) and potassium levels. Analysis was performed to compare 80 dietary variables, alone or multiple combinations, to the sodium/potassium levels and blood pressure readings.
No dietary variables had any effect on the relationship between sodium/potassium levels and blood pressure.
The bottom line
The authors concluded that the association between salt intake and hypertension is not influenced by any other dietary factor.
The fine print
This was an observational study so no intervention was performed. We do not know if adjusting a dietary factor can reduce the effects of salt on blood pressure levels.
What’s next?
If you have any questions regarding lifestyle adjustment and the treatment of hypertension please discuss with your physician.
Published By :
Hypertension (Dallas, Tex. : 1979)
Date :
Mar 05, 2018
