The connection between sodium and heart health is fairly well known, but there are other important ways sodium in excess can take a toll on your health. A little salt is fine, and even beneficial, but most Americans are getting too much sodium. Although experts recommend limiting your sodium consumption to 2,300 milligrams a day, the average American gets about 3,500, according to the American Heart Association.
Besides potential damage to your blood pressure and heart health, there are other ways your salt habit can impact your health.
References
American Heart Association. (2024). How much sodium should I eat per day?
American Heart Association. (2024). Sodium myths and facts for kids infographic.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2024). Heart disease facts.
Fiocco, A.J., et al. (2012). Sodium intake and physical activity impact cognitive maintenance in older adults: the NuAge Study. Neurobiology of Aging.
MedlinePlus. (2023). Chronic kidney disease.
National Cancer Institute. (2024). Stomach cancer causes and risk factors.
National Cancer Institute. (2023). Stomach (gastric) cancer prevention (PDQ) - health professional version.
National Kidney Foundation. (2019). Kidney stone diet plan and prevention.
National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. (2018). Your kidneys and how they work.
World Action on Salt & Health. (n.d.). Kidney disease and kidney stones.
World Action on Salt & Health. (n.d.). Salt and other conditions.
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