Cardiologist Dr. Bimal Chhajer says that people with high blood pressure do not need to stop eating salt altogether, as sodium is essential for many normal body functions. However, they should be mindful of how much they consume.
He explained that people who are unsure whether their blood pressure is sensitive to salt can monitor their blood pressure over several days while making small changes to their salt intake. However, those who have already been diagnosed with high or low blood pressure should not experiment on their own and should instead follow their doctor's advice.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), a healthy adult should consume less than 5 grams of salt per day, which is roughly equal to one teaspoon.
Health experts say that low blood pressure can sometimes be linked to dehydration and low sodium levels. In such cases, increasing fluid intake and consuming an appropriate amount of salt may help restore the body's sodium and water balance under medical guidance.
On the other hand, excessive salt intake can contribute to high blood pressure by causing the body to retain more water, increasing blood volume and placing additional pressure on blood vessels. For this reason, people with hypertension are generally advised to reduce their salt consumption.
Experts say common symptoms of low blood pressure include weakness, dizziness, fainting, blurred vision, and cold sweats. High blood pressure, meanwhile, may cause severe headaches, dizziness, blurred vision, and difficulty breathing.
Medical professionals emphasize that the right amount of salt varies depending on a person's age, overall health, and medical condition. They advise people with blood pressure problems to consult a healthcare professional before making significant changes to their diet.
