Salt reduction offers better BP control

Halving salt intake can significantly lower blood pressure in people already receiving treatment for hypertension, an expert research group has confirmed.

The meta-analysis of 35 clinical trials, by the group Action on Salt and published in the journal Hypertension, found that for every 3 grams of salt reduction, there is an average decrease of approximately 3.5 mmHg in systolic pressure and 2 mmHg in diastolic pressure, consistent with previous studies in people who were not taking antihypertensive medication.

The effect of salt reduction varies depending on the type of drugs. Significant BP reductions were seen in patients taking beta-blockers, renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS) inhibitors, or a combination therapy involving thiazide diuretics and RAAS inhibitors. The reduction was less among people on calcium channel blockers (CCBs) or diuretics alone.

The researchers conclude that by integrating salt reduction into standard care of people with hypertension, there is potential for better BP control, reduced reliance on drugs, and overall lower healthcare costs.

Song J, et al. Hypertension; September 2024. https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/abs/10.1161/HYPERTENSIONAHA.124.23382