Salt and its effects on heart health

Salt and its effects on heart health:

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 It is always recommended to eat less salt (or sodium) to avoid high blood pressure and heart disease.  In August 2014, a series of new research studies reviewed the link between salt (or sodium) and heart health and made new recommendations.

   The latest dietary guidelines suggest that adults should consume between 1,500 - 2,300 milligrams of salt (or sodium) daily, especially those with high blood pressure, diabetes, or kidney disease. 

  A new study:
   Recently, a group of researchers re-examined the effects of different amounts of salt (or sodium) on high blood pressure and heart disease.

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   Study  suggests that there is a strong and direct link between increased salt (or sodium) intake and high levels of blood pressure.

 Research also suggests that people who consume large amounts of salt (approximately 7,000 mg daily or more) have a higher risk of heart disease than those who consume moderate amounts of sodium (4,000 mg daily).  Both of these facts are especially important for people with high blood pressure.

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 Interestingly, these negative effects of salt on blood pressure were found to be less in those adults who also consumed  potassium (which is found in fruits and vegetables),along with salt  It suggests that it protects against heart disease.

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 Salt (or sodium) and potassium are both important minerals found in our cells and the right amount of these minerals is crucial for the better functioning of our cells. We Can suffer from various diseases if the correct amonut is not present . The main source of sodium is salt, while potassium is obtained from fruits and vegetables.

  Salt lovers:

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    Reducing salt (or sodium), while increasing potassium is most beneficial for people with high blood pressure.  People who are salt lovers should follow these guidelines to maintain heart health.

   The largest source of salt in the diet is packaged, canned and frozen foods.  Check the "Nutrition Facts" panel carefully, and choose "low salt" products whenever possible.  Other items with hidden salt (or sodium) include bread, processed meat, and spices.

  Add potassium-rich foods:

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 Most fruits and vegetables contains potassium, especially yellow and red coloured fruits and vegetables, e.g oranges, bananas, sweet potatoes, canoes, grapes, apricots, tomatoes, beans and pulses.

  Participate in physical activities:

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  The American Heart Association / AHA recommends regular physical activity for heart health. Do 30 minutes of light exercise as a part of your daily life for five days a week.  You do not need to go to a gym to perform daily activity You can start it with a light walk at your home.