Americans love salt (and we are not the only ones who do). However, doctors warn us sternly that sodium chloride (aka salt) raises blood pressure. Public health officials frequently advise cutting salt intake to lower the risk of hypertension. The main problem is that food without salt doesn’t taste appealing to most people. As a result, getting them to follow a low-salt diet is challenging. Might a salt substitute containing potassium chloride make it easier?
Chinese Adults Adopt Potassium-Based Salt Substitute:
A new study from China published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology reports that a potassium-enriched salt substitute helped prevent hypertension in older adults. The investigators provided some volunteers in elder care facilities with a salt substitute that was 25% potassium chloride (Journal of the American College of Cardiology, Feb. 12, 2024). This product also contained 62.5% sodium chloride and 12.5% other flavorings. Potassium chloride alone can taste bitter to some people, but the participants accepted it when combined with flavoring and regular salt. Three hundred thirteen people utilized this product for two years, while 298 stuck with ordinary salt.
During the study, systolic blood pressure increased by about 7 mm Hg on average among people seasoning their food with salt. Those using the substitute did not have any increase in blood pressure. The data show that people using the salt substitute on their food had lower blood pressure and were less likely to develop hypertension than those in the control group who used regular table salt.
The investigators note that people utilizing the salt substitute did not experience blood pressure dropping too low (hypotension). This occasionally happens when elderly people take medication to control their blood pressure.
Lite Salt Offers Americans an Option:
The product used in this study is not available in the US, but that shouldn’t be discouraging. More than a decade ago, we heard from a reader who wanted to know more about salt and blood pressure.
Q. About 40 years ago a doctor told me to increase my potassium intake. A few years later I found Morton Salt Substitute. I sprinkle about 1/8 teaspoon on my food about once a week, and I haven’t had a muscle cramp since I started this routine.
A. This is a good way to boost potassium intake, which may help prevent leg cramps. Too much potassium, however, can be dangerous. Anyone who is taking ACE inhibitor blood pressure medicines like enalapril, lisinopril or ramipril must be very cautious about extra potassium.
