We’ve all heard what happens when you consume too much sodium – your body retains extra water. This occurs because the kidneys, which filter waste from the blood, maintain a special ratio of electrolytes, such as sodium to potassium, to water. As a result, you may become dehydrated and develop a stomach ulcer. In addition, your arteries may harden, blood pressure rises and fluids increase in people with heart, liver or kidney diseases.
In 1996, the International Journal of Epidemiology published a study proving that both men and women who died from stomach cancer were linked to very high salt consumption throughout their lives.
Not to mention, that extra side of fries you ordered for lunch may very well leave you with bags under your eyes, puffy lips and inflated cheeks – aka edema.
However, did you know that NOT consuming enough salt has equally horrible effects on the body? In addition to controlling your blood pressure, salt is also needed for your muscles and nerves to work properly. Insufficient sodium can cause hyponatremia, characterized by the following symptoms:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Headache
- Confusion
- Loss of energy
- Fatigue
- Restlessness and irritability
- Muscle weakness, spasms or cramps
Dangerously low sodium levels can also lead to…
Here’s What Happens To Your Body When You Don’t Eat Enough Salt was originally published on blackdoctor.org
