Too much sodium causes your arteries to stiffen

Limiting sodium consumption can reduce arterial stiffness, according to a study published in the Journal of Hypertension. Researchers from Federico II University of Naples Medical School in Naples, Italy conducted a systematic review and a meta-analysis on salt restriction and arterial stiffness.

• The researchers reviewed randomized controlled trials that reported on salt restriction and arterial stiffness.
• Arterial stiffness is an independent risk factor for cardiovascular disease, and sodium consumption could be a factor of arterial stiffness.
• A total of 11 studies with 431 participants in total were included in the review.
• The intervention period in all of the studies lasted for one to six weeks.
• The results revealed that an average reduction in sodium consumption of 89.3 millimoles (mmol) per day reduced arterial stiffness.

In conclusion, the findings of the study suggested that limiting the intake of dietary sodium can reduce arterial stiffness.

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Journal Reference:

D’Elia L, Galletti F, La Fata E, Sabino P, Strazzullo P. EFFECT OF DIETARY SODIUM RESTRICTION ON ARTERIAL STIFFNESS: SYSTEMATIC REVIEW AND META-ANALYSIS OF THE RANDOMIZED CONTROLLED TRIALS Journal of Hypertension. April 2018; 36(4): 734-743. DOI: 10.1097/HJH.0000000000001604