What health issues can arise from excessive sodium intake?

Excessive sodium intake is known to have significant health implications, particularly in the context of high blood pressure, also known as hypertension. When sodium levels are too high, the body retains water to dilute the sodium, which increases blood volume and puts additional pressure on blood vessel walls. This heightened pressure can lead to the development of hypertension, a major risk factor for cardiovascular diseases, including heart disease and stroke.

Furthermore, chronically elevated blood pressure can cause damage to heart arteries, which can lead to serious complications over time. Therefore, the link between excessive sodium consumption and high blood pressure demonstrates why this choice stands out as the most pertinent health issue associated with high sodium levels. Understanding this relationship emphasizes the importance of managing sodium intake as part of a healthy dietary practice to maintain cardiovascular health.