How is excess sodium in the diet linked to obesity

In summary: For some people, it's like their blood pressure just goes up automatically. I don't know how to describe it other than that.
  • #1
Mk
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4
How is excess sodium in the diet linked to obesity and high blood pressure?
 
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  • #2
Sodium does have an affect on the human brain it can cause depolarzation.I'am not sure why it causes obesity.
 
  • #3
Mk said:
How is excess sodium in the diet linked to obesity and high blood pressure?
I've never read about sodium linked to obesity. It can cause water retention, but that is only a few pounds at most and fluctuates.

Here is a good explanation of how sodium can contribute to high blood pressure.

"How Does Sodium Contribute to High Blood Pressure?

In a complex way, increased salt intake causes more fluid to be contained in the blood vessels. This increased volume of blood requires the heart to work harder to pump blood to all the tissues in the body. Increasing the bloods volume within the enclosure of the circulatory system is one way that salt increases blood pressure. Another way salt may help elevate blood pressure is through the action of the arterioles. Arterioles are blood vessels that dilate and constrict to regulate blood pressure and blood flow. By contracting under the influence of sodium, arterioles effectively increase the resistance to blood movement and lessen the volume of blood that is returned to the heart. This action also increases blood pressure. Other mechanisms linking sodium with hypertension are less well understood. The extent to which each person responds to high intake of salt is probably genetically determined. Some people are more susceptible to the effects of sodium than others, and sodium sensitivity appears to increase with age.

http://health.rutgers.edu/factsheets/sodium.htm [Broken]
 
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  • #4
Mk said:
How is excess sodium in the diet linked to obesity and high blood pressure?
What is the origin or this question, or where did one find the association between sodium in the diet and obesity. Certainly, excess sodium will contribute to higher blood pressure.

Likely the diet is the key term. Processed food, particularly frozen meals, often contain more salt (for taste) and likely more carbohydrates and saturated fats, which will contribute to obesity. Snacks food, e.g. potato chips, corn chips, etc, have salt, carbohydrates and fats/oils - none of which have nutritional value - but they are filling, i.e. they satiate an appetite.

With regard to salt, the body adapts to the taste so that some people must increase salt in the food to achieve a taste, and as one ages, one looses the ability to smell and taste, and this may induce one to increase in salt in the food. I have observed this with older people I know.

So I think diet, which may include processed and snack food with relatively high salt, carbohydrate and fat proportions contribute to obesity and high blood pressure.

The other factor in obesity and high blood pressure, is lack of excercise!

So to prevent high blood pressure and obesity - eat lean white/pink meats and fish, fresh fruits and vegetables, and whole grains. Minimize caloric intake and exercise in proportion to one's food intake. A miminal excercise can mean walking at least 2 miles/3 km each day, and preferably more. Also riding a bicycle, for 5-8 miles at least, swimming, and or some other sport where one is doing aerobic activity for at least 40 minutes is desirable.
 
  • #5
Evo said:
"How Does Sodium Contribute to High Blood Pressure?
In a complex way, increased salt intake causes more fluid to be contained in the blood vessels. This increased volume of blood requires the heart to work harder to pump blood to all the tissues in the body. Increasing the bloods volume within the enclosure of the circulatory system is one way that salt increases blood pressure. Another way salt may help elevate blood pressure is through the action of the arterioles. Arterioles are blood vessels that dilate and constrict to regulate blood pressure and blood flow. By contracting under the influence of sodium, arterioles effectively increase the resistance to blood movement and lessen the volume of blood that is returned to the heart. This action also increases blood pressure. Other mechanisms linking sodium with hypertension are less well understood. The extent to which each person responds to high intake of salt is probably genetically determined. Some people are more susceptible to the effects of sodium than others, and sodium sensitivity appears to increase with age.
http://health.rutgers.edu/factsheets/sodium.htm [Broken]

This is very interesting, Evo. I had never wondered exactly how salt raises blood pressure but the increased fluid volume and the response of the arterioles to it explains it pretty well. I'm getting very sensitive to salt the older I get and can literally feel my blood pressure go up after I eat something salty like popcorn.
 
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  • #6
How do you "feel your blood pressure go up?"
 
  • #7
Mk said:
How do you "feel your blood pressure go up?"
Not everyone can do it. You have to have a special extra sense, much like ESP.
 
  • #8
Ha ha ha ha ha. Are you serious?
 
  • #9
Mk said:
Ha ha ha ha ha. Are you serious?
Ha ha ha ha ha. No.
 

1. How does excess sodium in the diet contribute to obesity?

Excess sodium intake in the diet can lead to fluid retention in the body, which can cause weight gain and contribute to obesity. This is because sodium causes the body to hold onto water, leading to bloating and an increase in overall body weight.

2. Does consuming too much sodium make you gain weight?

Yes, consuming too much sodium can lead to weight gain. When we consume excess sodium, our bodies hold onto more water, which can result in weight gain and contribute to obesity. It is important to monitor our sodium intake in order to maintain a healthy weight.

3. What are the health risks associated with excess sodium intake and obesity?

Excess sodium intake and obesity can increase the risk of several health issues, including high blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke. These conditions can have serious consequences on overall health and well-being.

4. How can reducing sodium intake help with weight loss?

Reducing sodium intake can help with weight loss by decreasing the amount of water retention in the body. This results in a decrease in overall body weight and can aid in weight loss efforts. Additionally, reducing sodium intake can also lead to a decrease in bloating and a more defined appearance.

5. Can cutting out sodium completely help with weight loss?

No, cutting out sodium completely is not recommended for weight loss. Our bodies need some sodium for proper functioning, and completely eliminating it from our diets can have negative health effects. It is important to consume sodium in moderation and to focus on a balanced and nutritious diet for weight loss.

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