High salt intake is associated with an increased risk of hypertension, that is, an abnormally high blood pressure. At the same time it is believed that vitamins and minerals contained in vegetables and fruits can compensate for damage from excess salt. Scientists have decided to check whether this is so.

Researchers analyzed data of four and a half thousand inhabitants of the USA, Great Britain, Japan and China from 40 to 59 years. Within four days, they reported in detail about their diet, and twice passed a urinalysis. In addition, the data included information on the participants' height, weight and blood pressure levels.

Scientists have estimated concentrations of sodium and potassium in the urine of these people. Sodium is the main component of salt, and potassium, which is rich in green leafy vegetables, is believed to lower blood pressure.

Researchers also analyzed how participants consume 80 micronutrients associated with normalizing pressure - vitamin C, fiber, omega-3 fatty acids. Many of these substances are found in vegetables, fruits and whole grains.

It turned out that the relationship between high salt intake and an increased risk of hypertension is clearly traced regardless of how generally the diet is healthy. Even in people who ate a lot of vegetables, fruits and whole grains, but at the same time consumed too much salt, the tendency to increased pressure remained high.

newsyou. info.

Keywords:.