By Saumya Rastogi | April 1, 2025 | Images: Freepik
Too much sodium causes the body to retain water, increasing blood volume and putting more pressure on blood vessels. Over time, this can lead to hypertension (high blood pressure), a major risk factor for heart disease and stroke
Excess salt forces the heart to work harder, potentially leading to heart attacks, heart failure, and cardiovascular diseases. It can also contribute to arterial stiffness and plaque buildup, increasing the risk of heart complications
The kidneys help regulate fluid balance, but too much salt can overwhelm them, leading to kidney disease or kidney stones. High sodium intake can also reduce kidney function over time, increasing the risk of kidney failure
Excess salt disrupts the body’s fluid balance, leading to water retention, puffiness, and bloating. This can cause swelling in the face, hands, feet, and even lead to temporary weight gain
High salt intake causes the body to lose calcium through urine, weakening bones over time. This increases the risk of osteoporosis and fractures, especially in older adults
Studies suggest that excessive sodium may contribute to reduced cognitive function, memory issues, and a higher risk of dementia. High blood pressure caused by too much salt can also reduce blood flow to the brain, impacting mental sharpness
A high-salt diet can damage the stomach lining, increasing the risk of gastritis, acid reflux, and stomach ulcers. Long-term, it has been linked to an increased risk of stomach cancer
Since high salt intake raises blood pressure, it also increases the chances of stroke by damaging arteries in the brain. Reduced blood flow to the brain can result in ischemic strokes and long-term neurological issues
Too much salt makes your body pull water from cells, leading to constant thirst, dry mouth, and dehydration. This can cause fatigue, headaches, and dizziness, as the body struggles to maintain fluid balance