Salt reduction may not help those with normal blood pressure
An analysis of 83 studies suggests that, while salt reduction is useful for those with high blood pressure, it may not be beneficial for those with normal blood pressure.
Researchers in Copenhagen, Denmark analyzed the results of the studies, which included people who had eaten either a high or low sodium diet. In 56 trials of people with normal blood pressure, the effect of reduced sodium intake on systolic blood pressure was 1.2 mm Hg and on diastolic blood pressure was 0.26 mm Hg.
The authors of the review conclude that these results do not support a general recommendation to reduce sodium intake, although reduced sodium intake may be used as a supplementary treatment in hypertension. They call for trials with end points such as morbidity and survival (to) end the controversy over the role of dietary sodium restriction.
