Hypertension (high blood pressure) is sneaky—it often develops without symptoms but can lead to serious health issues like heart disease and strokes. The good news? A small change to what’s on your plate might make a big difference.
Recent research from China revealed that switching out regular table salt for a salt substitute can reduce your risk of developing hypertension. The substitute contains less sodium (the part of salt that raises blood pressure) and more potassium, which helps counteract sodium’s effects. Participants who made the switch were 40% less likely to develop hypertension over two years than those who stuck to regular salt.
Here’s how it works: sodium in regular salt can increase blood pressure by holding onto water in your bloodstream, putting stress on your heart. Potassium, on the other hand, helps your body get rid of excess sodium and relaxes your blood vessels. This balance could keep your heart healthier for longer.
Still, these salt substitutes aren’t for everyone! People with kidney issues or those on certain medications need to be cautious, because too much potassium can be dangerous.
With hypertension on the rise worldwide, some health experts suggest that replacing regular salt with a potassium-enriched salt substitute could be a game-changer for preventing high blood pressure and protecting your heart. You can also try swapping salt with different spices, or simply lower the amount of salt you use, instead of this salt substitute.
Small changes today can mean big health wins in the future.
