Why is too much sodium bad for you?

Question

So if it raises blood-pressure, would it be good for a person with low blood pressure to have a lot of sodium?

Answer 1

Sodium levels are VERY strictly controlled in the body by the kidneys. Even tiny changes are immediately evened out by either getting rid of excess sodium or conserving it if there is not enough.

This means that for the vast majority of people, sodium intake is really not much of an issue, because the body compensates.

unfortunately, for many people it IS an issue. Most people with high blood pressure can lower their blood pressure by lowering their sodium intake consistently. This actually works by restricting the amount of fluid the body will conserve, and thus there is less blood volume overall.

There is no reason to believe, however, that for those with low blood pressure, having a high sodium intake will increase blood pressure significantly.

As always, discuss these and any questions with your doctor.

Answer 2

Too much sodium in the diet may raise blood pressure in some people. For those who already have high blood pressure, a diet high in sodium may further increase their risk of heart disease, stroke, and kidney damage. High sodium intake can worsen heart failure and can increase the amount of water retained by the body, leading to swelling of the legs and hands. Taking in more than 4,000 milligrams (mg) of sodium per day causes problems for some people.

Answer 3

Sorry if I'm totally off, but from what I understand it can cause problems when in excess intake like hypertension and osteoperosis. To tell you the truth, you don't need salt, because it's naturally occuring in nearly all your foods. A bit doesn't hurt, just try to not go above 4 grams a day. Thats a few pinches.

Answer 4

Too much of ANYTHING is bad for you.

Sodium causes you to retain water, which can increase blood pressure (more liquid to be sloshed around) and other problems.

Avoid processed foods, eat fresh vegetables, fresh fruits, and add in little bits of meat and wholegrain starches now and then.

Answer 5

yes, it's bad for your blood pressure. I know, because my doctor said eating Ramen is bad for me ,because of all the sodium---I love Ramen, too! Even V8 juice is bad ,because of all the sodium, but I like that, too. just read your labels when you eat or drink something. good luck!!!

Answer 6

It raises your blood pressure which can lead to a heart attack and it also can make your hands, legs and feet swell if you consume too much of it.

Answer 7

salt can cause retention of fluids in your body. That can raise your blood pressure and this could contribute to a stroke. Least that is what Docs always tell me.

Answer 8

It causes high blood pressure. Also, it could interfere with heart beats.

Answer 9

dehydrates you
depletes nutrients, i think