Salt and insulin: What is the connection?

Jun 27, 2024

Sushmita Panda

A new study has revealed that low-salt diets can lead to systemic insulin resistance, raising significant health concerns.

Low-salt diets are indicated for some heart ailments and as a part of dietary restriction for patients with hypertension.

They can trigger insulin resistance, elevating the risk of hypertension and increasing the risk of cardiovascular issues such as heart disease and stroke.

While sodium restriction may lower blood pressure in some, it often leads to adverse metabolic outcomes.

Low-salt diets are often recommended for lowering blood pressure (BP) but can have unintended consequences like worsening insulin resistance.

These changes can lead to severe metabolic disruptions, making it essential to reassess the universal recommendation of low-salt diets.

Insulin resistance occurs when the body’s cells become less responsive to insulin, leading to elevated blood glucose levels and a cascade of metabolic issues.

As India grapples with rising rates of chronic metabolic diseases, the findings highlight the need for personalized nutrition strategies.