Fact 14: Sodium Intake, Hypertension, and Dementia: The Hidden Connection
Dietary habits, particularly sodium intake, have a significant role in the development and management of hypertension. High-sodium diets are notorious for their contribution to hypertension, which can, in turn, increase the risk of dementia.
The connection to dementia arises from the impact of hypertension on brain health. As discussed earlier, sustained high blood pressure can result in vascular damage within the brain, potentially leading to cognitive decline and dementia.
This connection between sodium intake, hypertension, and dementia underscores the importance of dietary choices in health outcomes. It’s a clear example of how everyday choices, like what we eat, can have a profound impact on our health outcomes. By adopting a low-sodium diet, individuals can help manage their blood pressure levels and potentially reduce their risk of cognitive decline and dementia. (14)
