What intakes of sodium that exceed the CDRR typically increase quizlet?

According to the National Academies, more than 80% of U.S. adults and children consume sodium above the Chronic Disease Risk Reduction Intake (CDRR). Intakes of sodium that exceed the CDRR typically increase blood pressure, leading to higher cardiovascular disease risk.

Quick Summary

An elevated sodium intake beyond the Chronic Disease Risk Reduction Intake (CDRR) is primarily linked to increased blood pressure, a condition known as hypertension. This excess sodium causes the body to retain water, increasing blood volume and placing stress on the heart and vessels. Prolonged hypertension significantly heightens the risk of heart disease, stroke, and kidney issues.

Key Points

• Exceeding the CDRR Increases Blood Pressure: Intakes of sodium above the Chronic Disease Risk Reduction Intake (CDRR) are known to increase blood pressure, a primary cause of cardiovascular disease.

• CDRR vs. Average Intake: The CDRR for adults is under 2,300 mg/day, yet the average American consumes around 3,400 mg daily, largely from processed and restaurant foods.

• Physiological Mechanism: High sodium causes the body to retain water, increasing blood volume and pressure on blood vessel walls, leading to hypertension.

• Long-Term Health Risks: Sustained high sodium intake increases the risk of heart disease, stroke, kidney damage, osteoporosis, and arterial stiffness.

• Individual Sensitivity Matters: Some people are more sensitive to the blood pressure-raising effects of sodium due to genetics, age, or pre-existing conditions.

• Blood Pressure-Independent Effects: High sodium can harm organs like the heart and kidneys even in the absence of elevated blood pressure through mechanisms like vascular dysfunction.

• Sodium Reduction is Effective: Reducing sodium intake can effectively lower blood pressure and chronic disease risk in both hypertensive and normotensive individuals.

Understanding the CDRR for Sodium

What is the Chronic Disease Risk Reduction Intake (CDRR)?

The Chronic Disease Risk Reduction Intake (CDRR) for sodium, established by the National Academies, is a guideline for individuals aged 14 and older. It recommends reducing sodium intake above 2,300 mg per day to lower the risk of chronic diseases, particularly cardiovascular issues. The CDRR aims to address the fact that most Americans consume well above this level.

The Physiological Impact of Excess Sodium

Consuming sodium beyond the CDRR disrupts fluid and mineral balance, leading to elevated blood pressure. Excess sodium causes the body to retain water, increasing blood volume and putting strain on the heart and blood vessels. For more details on the link between high sodium intake and hypertension, physiological consequences, and long-term health risks, refer to {Link: Baystate Health https://www.baystatehealth.org/articles/salt-and-blood-pressure}. This source also discusses salt sensitivity and provides a comparison of sodium levels and health risks.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does CDRR stand for in relation to sodium intake? CDRR stands for Chronic Disease Risk Reduction Intake. It's the level of sodium intake above which a reduction is recommended to decrease the risk of chronic diseases like hypertension and cardiovascular disease.

How does excess sodium increase blood pressure? Excess sodium causes the body to retain more water. This extra fluid increases blood volume, which puts more pressure on blood vessel walls, leading to higher blood pressure.

Is the CDRR the same for everyone? While the CDRR for adults aged 14+ is typically set at 2,300 mg per day, individual health needs and factors like age, ethnicity, and pre-existing conditions can influence optimal intake. More information on those who may need to aim for lower levels can be found on {Link: Baystate Health https://www.baystatehealth.org/articles/salt-and-blood-pressure}.

What are the main sources of sodium for most Americans? Details on the primary sources of sodium for most Americans are available from {Link: Baystate Health https://www.baystatehealth.org/articles/salt-and-blood-pressure}.

Can reducing sodium help even if I don't have high blood pressure? Information regarding the benefits of reducing sodium for individuals with and without existing hypertension can be found on {Link: Baystate Health https://www.baystatehealth.org/articles/salt-and-blood-pressure}.

What happens to my body when I first start eating less salt? {Link: Baystate Health https://www.baystatehealth.org/articles/salt-and-blood-pressure} provides details on how taste buds adapt to a lower-salt diet.

What are some simple ways to lower my sodium intake? For simple strategies to lower sodium intake, refer to {Link: Baystate Health https://www.baystatehealth.org/articles/salt-and-blood-pressure}.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does CDRR stand for in relation to sodium intake?

CDRR stands for Chronic Disease Risk Reduction Intake. It's the level of sodium intake above which a reduction is recommended to decrease the risk of chronic diseases like hypertension and cardiovascular disease.

How does excess sodium increase blood pressure?

Excess sodium causes the body to retain more water. This extra fluid increases blood volume, which puts more pressure on blood vessel walls, leading to higher blood pressure.

Is the CDRR the same for everyone?

While the CDRR for adults aged 14+ is typically set at 2,300 mg per day, individual health needs and factors like age, ethnicity, and pre-existing conditions can influence optimal intake. Those with high blood pressure may be advised to aim for even lower levels.

What are the main sources of sodium for most Americans?

More than 70% of the sodium consumed by Americans comes from packaged, processed, and restaurant foods, not from table salt added during cooking or at the table.

Can reducing sodium help even if I don't have high blood pressure?

Yes, reducing sodium intake benefits both those with and without existing hypertension. Evidence shows that reducing sodium can lower blood pressure in both groups and reduce the risk of future cardiovascular issues.

What happens to my body when I first start eating less salt?

Initially, food may taste bland as your palate adjusts. However, over time, your taste buds will adapt, and you'll become more sensitive to natural flavors, often preferring less salty foods.

What are some simple ways to lower my sodium intake?

Simple strategies include reading nutrition labels, choosing fresh over processed foods, using herbs and spices for seasoning, rinsing canned vegetables, and reducing portion sizes.