Excessive Sodium Intake May Raise Stroke Risk

The American Heart Association recommends limiting sodium intake to no more than 1500 mg/day to maintain cardiovascular health. Previous studies have linked increased sodium intake to vascular disease by direct relationship with hypertension. Hannah Gardener, from The University of Miami (Florida, USA), and colleagues including those from Columbia University (New York, USA), studied subjects enrolled in the Northern Manhattan Study, mean age 69 years.  High sodium intake was common in the study population, with 80% of the subjects consuming more than the American Heart Association’s recommended upper limit. The team observed a 17% increase in stroke risk for each 500 mg per day increase in sodium consumption. Further, the risk became progressively greater with higher sodium consumption, with those who consumed more than 4000 mg of sodium per day at a 2.6-fold increased stroke risk, as compared to those consuming less than 1500 mg. The study authors conclude that: "High sodium intake was prevalent and associated with an increased risk of stroke independent of vascular risk factors.”