Heart hypertension is a serious health condition for seniors, and salt consumption is often given the blame. However, it's not as simple as pointing to just one factor when it comes to high blood pressure: eating too much sodium is more nuanced than many people assume.
In this blog post, direct from Senior Helpers Danbury, we want to separate common myths from the facts about salt and hypertension so that seniors can make informed decisions about their diet choices.
Eating Too Much Salt Can Cause Health Problems
It's true that eating too much salt can contribute to hypertension. High sodium consumption is linked to a variety of health issues, according to Healthline, including a rise in blood pressure, intense thirst, and even a risk of heart disease.
Of course, it's important to point out that many other factors excuse an increase in one's blood pressure. Aging itself is seen as one of the biggest contributors. Additionally, seniors who are overweight or have chronic kidney disease may be at a higher risk for issues associated with eating too much salt.
The History of Salt and Hypertension
Interestingly enough, the association between salt consumption and high blood pressure isn't a recent one. It has long been assumed by leading physicians and experts that eating too much salt could lead to health problems.
As reported by PubMed, studies have shown that primitive societies that ingest little or no salt have no hypertension. Also, when foods very low in salt such as rice and fruit are given to hypertensive patients, the blood pressure often falls toward normal.
However, there are some things to keep in mind when it comes to salt. Healthline notes that your body needs some salt in order to function properly, with too little salt leading to low blood pressure and even dehydration.
What Salt-heavy Foods to Avoid
The typical American diet can be considered the face of salt-heavy meals. Fast food, processed snacks, and ready-made sauces are all packed with excessive amounts of sodium. The same is true for many frozen and canned goods as well.
For this reason, avoid tinned soups and vegetables as much as you can to keep your salt intake in check. To keep your blood pressure in check and avoid health issues related to hypertension, try to eat as many fresh fruits and vegetables as possible. Lean protein, such as chicken and salmon, can contribute to good overall health as well.
Senior Helpers Provides Senior Care Solutions
Simply put, eating too much salt is never a good idea, and it can lead to high blood pressure in seniors. However, the connection between hypertension and salt consumption is far more complex than one single factor.
Make sure that you stay informed about your health condition and know what foods can cause an increase in your blood pressure levels. Start with fresh ingredients and don't be afraid to experiment with new recipes as you go!
Senior Helpers Danbury offers premium care services to senior adults in and around the Danbury, New Milford, Newtown, Fairfield County, and Litchfield County areas. Contact us today to learn more!