Why does salt cause heart problems?

Answer 1

Because it does! It's one of the many medical 'sacred cows' that must not be questioned. Studies have shown that people suffering from hypertension (which is linked to heart problems) can reduce their blood pressure by reducing their salt (sodium) intake. Other studies have suggested that raising the potassium intake to balance that of the sodium has the same beneficial effect.

Other studies have suggested that salt intake has no effect on people with normal blood pressure.

The 'carved in stone' dogma is that too much salt raises blood pressure, although no-one has come up with an answer as to HOW it does.

Answer 2

It gives you a heartburn if you eat too much.

Answer 3

Sodium can affect the heart in several different ways. It can cause high blood pressure, heart failure, and an enlarged heart muscle.

Answer 4

It affects the human heart rate by slowing it down, because I did a science fair experiment on that. :)