(ConservativeJournal.org) – A new study from the American College of Cardiology (ACC) reveals that most people with heart issues struggle to reduce their salt intake. The main cause of heart disease, according to the study, can be directly linked to consuming too much salt. The study analyzed data from over 3,100 heart patients.
Researchers emphasize the importance of consciously controlled salt consumption. As per US Dietary Guidelines, heart disease patients are advised to limit their sodium intake to 1,500 milligrams (mg) per day. However, the study found that nine out of ten heart patients exceed this limit. The average consumption, according to the study results, is over 3,000 mg a day. This is significantly higher than the recommended level, indicating a substantial gap between guidelines and actual consumption.
Lead researcher, Dr. Elsie Kodjoe, states that heart patients are not effectively reducing their sodium intake compared to the general population. This can lead to the exacerbation of their already present heart disease and the onset of other issues, such as problems with blood pressure.
The study specifically highlighted the challenge heart patients face in estimating the exact sodium content in foods, especially in processed and takeout meals. Dr. Kodjoe stressed the need for a practical solution to help people follow the recommended guidelines. She suggested the implementations of new measures that can help individuals to monitor and reduce their sodium intake.
Researchers recommended meal prep as a good way to reduce salt intake. With meal prep, somebody can easily weigh out or measure the amount of sodium that they are consuming from a label.
The study further revealed that age, gender, or race did not play a factor in any data regarding the research. This means the consumption of salt is extremely high across the board.
As the most important takeaway from the study, Dr. Kodjoe highlighted the significance of following the potentially lifesaving sodium intake guidelines in reducing the chance of developing or heart disease.
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