Higher Potassium Intake and Lower Sodium Intake May Help in Reducing CVD Risk by Lowering Salt Sensitivity of Blood Pressure in the Han Chinese Population

Abstract

Sodium (Na) reduction with a parallel supplemental potassium (K) intake can prevent cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). The relationship of the urinary Na/K ratio and salt sensitivity of blood pressure (SSBP) with CVDs is not clearly explained. We assumed that the SSBP mediates the relationship between the Na/K ratio and CVDs. In total, 2055 subjects who had 24 h urine collected and SSBP determined were included in this study. CVD risk was estimated using the China-PAR equation. MediationMultivariate logistic regression was used to explore the associations between the Na/K ratio or SSBP with CVD risk. Mediation analysis using a logistic regression model was performed. Both the urinary Na/K ratio and SSBP were related to the estimated CVD risk (p < 0.05). The mediation analysis found that SSBP mediated approximately 12% of the association between Na/K ratio and CVD risk. Our findings indicate that higher K intake and lower Na intake may help in preventing CVD risk by reducing SSBP risk in individuals with normotension or stage-one hypertension.

Dietary sodium/potassium intake and cognitive impairment in older patients with hypertension: Data from NHANES 2011–2014

“…[5][6][7] Additionally, potassium-containing salts have been used as substitutes for sodium. [8][9][10] Many studies have shown that high potassium intake may lower blood pressure and CVD risk partly, [11][12][13] and high potassium intake may mitigate the negative impacts of high sodium intake. 14 Cognitive impairment is linked to cardiovascular risk factors in the general population, 15 and diet is considered an important factor in cognitive function.…”

“… 5 , 6 , 7 Additionally, potassium‐containing salts have been used as substitutes for sodium. 8 , 9 , 10 Many studies have shown that high potassium intake may lower blood pressure and CVD risk partly, 11 , 12 , 13 and high potassium intake may mitigate the negative impacts of high sodium intake. 14 …”