12 Mar 2009
Consuming a little less salt could mean fewer deaths

Are we still trying to throw the book at salt? But wait: this was not a study of salt use at all:

These results were derived from a validated computer-simulation of heart disease among U.S. adults.

Where did the data used in this computer simulation come from?

For years, ample evidence has linked salt intake to high blood pressure and heart disease.

What evidence? I personally participated in a salt study in the 1980's that showed no evidence of any such thing! I've called bullshit on this before. And I'll keep calling it until they show me the data. But I must confess to being a bit puzzled: why on earth are these folks so obsessed over salt? Especially when so many studies have shown there's no real cause for alarm? What's the deal?

A moderate decrease in daily salt intake could benefit the US population and reduce the rates of heart disease and deaths. All segments of the US population would be expected to benefit, with the largest health benefits experienced by African Americans who are more likely to have hypertension and whose blood pressure may be more sensitive to salt.

(link) [EurekAlert!]

Update: This came across the wire this morning: salt is now an addictive drug!

Scientists suggest we add salt to our food, even though we know it is bad for us, because it is a natural antidepressant

(link) [BBC News]

08:34 /Politics | 1 comment | permanent link