Wednesday, 16 September 2015

DANGERS OF EXCESSIVE SALT


1. Hypertension
The number one medical consequence of high salt intake is hypertension. High intake of salt causes water retention and promotes abnormal influx of water molecules into your blood vessels. This action instantaneously increases your blood volume and blood pressure.
2. Abnormal Heart Development
A habit of eating salty food can also heighten your risk of non-blood pressure related heart diseases. Having higher than normal blood volume means that your heart has to work much harder to provide proper circulation.
3. Osteoporosis
Sodium inhibits your body’s absorption and
utilization of calcium, leading to a loss of bone mass and increased porousness of your bones.
4. Kidney Disorders
Excess calcium and sodium that are not used by your body goes into your urine. This can increase the filtration load of your kidneys and increase the likelihood of crystal formation. Elevated blood pressure and blood volume are also extremely damaging to your kidneys.
5. Dehydration and Swelling
Feeling thirsty is a direct response after having salty food. This happens because excessive sodium in your blood draws water out of your cells and into your tissues. Dehydrated cells signal your brain for water. Having fluid filled tissue makes you look bloated and swollen, and these symptoms are especially severe in the lower parts of your body. Reducing your salt intake is an effective way of preventing swollen feet, ankles and calves.
6. Digestive Diseases
Sodium regulates the acid-base balance of blood and body fluids. Too much salt can trigger acid reflux and cause heart burn and long-term damage to your upper digestive tract. Studies have shown that habitual intake of salty foods is a strong risk factor for duodenal and gastric ulcers and cancers.
7. Electrolyte and Hormone Imbalance
Excessive sodium can impact both your
electrolyte and hormone balance. Too much
sodium can severely hinder the conduction of nerve impulses and induce symptoms like
dizziness, muscle cramps and shakiness.

No comments:

Post a Comment