QUICK SUMMARY
Salt has long been blamed as a major cause of high blood pressure, but the real story is more nuanced. The sodium present in salt can increase blood pressure by causing the body to retain water, increasing blood volume and placing additional strain on blood vessels. However, not everyone responds to salt in the same way. Many individuals, especially older adults, people with diabetes, kidney disease, or a family history of hypertension, may be salt-sensitive and experience a greater rise in blood pressure from sodium intake.
In India, average salt consumption is nearly double the amount recommended by the World Health Organization. Combined with a higher prevalence of salt sensitivity, this contributes significantly to rising rates of hypertension and cardiovascular disease. Understanding your personal risk and making informed dietary choices can play an important role in protecting heart health.
