Why is excess sodium harmful?
Sodium intake is one factor involved in the development of high blood pressure, otherwise known as hypertension. Hypertension tends to develop as people age. Some individuals are “salt sensitive,” so reducing the intake of sodium helps to reduce blood pressure levels. A high intake of sodium early in life might weaken the genetic defences against developing high blood pressure. Experts recommend not to wait and see if you develop hypertension, but to reduce the sodium intake while blood pressure is still normal. This may decrease your risk of developing hypertension. Of course,`A0other equally important considerations are healthy eating, maintaining ideal body weight, physical exercise, stress management and the amount of mono and polyunsaturated fatty acids in the diet. Foods rich in calcium, magnesium and potassium are strongly recommended as protective measures against hypertension. Consuming excess sodium may lead to edema or water retention. Women who suffer from bloating and wate
