In a study, researchers found reducing salt intake by just one spoon a day for a week can result in lowering blood pressure, even among individuals already on antihypertensive drugs.
Dr Deepak Gupta, said “We previously didn’t know if people already on blood pressure medication could actually lower their blood pressure more by reducing their sodium intake.”
Researchers from Northwestern Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Centre, and the University of Alabama have jointly conducted this pivotal research.
The findings are important for healthcare providers and patients alike. The results suggest that even small, manageable changes in diet can yield substantial health benefits.
This study stands out for including individuals with varying blood pressure statuses, from normotensive to hypertensive, and those undergoing different treatments.
The classical diet that doctors in India advise for hypertension is called the DASH diet — Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension. This involves high fibre and low salt intake.
Some may consume sodium without any impact, but those with salt sensitivity experience a massive imbalance in their kidneys leading to high BP adds Dr Manohar KN.
Dr Manohar recommends eating more fruits, vegetables, raw nuts, and unprocessed beans as they are typically low in sodium and high in potassium, it helps manage sodium intake.