What is worse, salt or sugar, if you have high blood pressure? The short answer is that both salt and sugar can be harmful for people with hypertension. Excessive intake of either can contribute to the development of hypertension, as well as increase the risk of other health problems.
Effects of salt consumption on blood pressure
Eating food high in salt can lead to an increase in blood pressure because sodium, which is a component of salt, can cause the body to retain water. When the body holds onto excess water, it increases the volume of blood and puts more strain on the blood vessels and heart, which can raise blood pressure.
The effects of salt on blood pressure can vary depending on an individual’s age, gender, and health status. For example, people who are older, male, or have pre-existing health conditions such as hypertension or diabetes may be more sensitive to the effects of salt on blood pressure.
Reducing dietary intake of salt can help to lower blood pressure in some people. The American Heart Association recommends that adults consume no more than 2,300 milligrams (mg) of sodium per day, with an ideal limit of no more than 1,500 mg per day for most adults. However, some people, such as those with hypertension, may need to limit their sodium intake even further.
Effect of sugar consumption on blood pressure
Sugar, or glucose, does not directly affect blood pressure. However, consuming too much sugar can contribute to weight gain, which can in turn raise blood pressure. Excess body weight puts additional strain on the heart and blood vessels, which can lead to increased blood pressure. Weight gain is a risk factor for hypertension. In addition, sugar can cause spikes in blood sugar levels, which can increase blood pressure.
Elevated blood sugar levels can lead to insulin resistance, a condition in which the body becomes less sensitive to the effects of insulin. Insulin is a hormone that helps regulate blood sugar levels. When the body becomes insulin resistant, it may produce more insulin to try to lower blood sugar levels, and this can lead to an increase in blood pressure.
It is important to limit sugar intake to help manage blood pressure and reduce the risk of other health problems. The American Heart Association recommends that adults consume no more than 25 grams of added sugars per day for women and no more than 36 grams per day for men.
Added sugars are sugars that are added to foods and drinks during processing or preparation, and they can be found in a wide variety of foods, including baked goods, sweets, and sweetened beverages.
Conclusion
Both salt and sugar can affect blood pressure, but in different ways. It is important for people with hypertension to maintain a healthy diet that is low in salt and sugar. This can help to manage blood pressure and reduce the risk of other health problems. It is also important to get regular physical activity and manage stress, as these factors can also contribute to hypertension.
Read more
Salt and sugar: their effects on blood pressure – PubMed
Sugar vs. Salt: What’s Worse for Blood Pressure? – WebMD
