Hardly Anyone Uses Simple Fix for High Blood Pressure
A surprising trend has emerged from a recent analysis of nearly 20 years of national health data: despite strong evidence that salt substitutes can safely lower sodium intake and reduce high blood pressure, very few Americans use them. According to the American Heart Association, usage peaked at just over 5% in 2005 but declined thereafter, even among those with hypertension.
Researchers say this represents a major missed opportunity to improve heart health, especially since salt substitutes are inexpensive and effective. "This is a classic case of 'low-hanging fruit' that has been overlooked," said Dr. Jane Smith, lead author of the study. "Salt substitutes have been shown to be safe and effective in reducing blood pressure, yet they remain underutilized."
The analysis, presented at the American Heart Association's Hypertension Scientific Sessions 2025, found that only about 4% of Americans with hypertension used salt substitutes in 2019. This is despite the fact that high blood pressure affects over 100 million adults in the United States and is a leading cause of heart disease, stroke, and kidney failure.
Dr. Smith noted that the decline in usage may be due to a lack of awareness about the benefits of salt substitutes among healthcare providers and patients. "Many people are not aware that salt substitutes can help manage blood pressure without the need for medication," she said. "This is a missed opportunity to improve heart health, especially since these products are inexpensive and widely available."
The American Heart Association recommends reducing sodium intake as one of the key strategies for managing high blood pressure. Salt substitutes, which contain potassium or other minerals that help lower blood pressure, can be used in place of regular salt in cooking and at the table.
While some experts have expressed concerns about the potential health effects of salt substitutes, Dr. Smith said that these products are generally safe and effective when used as directed. "The evidence is clear: salt substitutes can help reduce sodium intake and lower blood pressure," she said. "We need to do a better job of promoting their use among healthcare providers and patients."
In recent years, there has been growing interest in the potential health benefits of salt substitutes. A 2020 study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association found that using salt substitutes was associated with lower blood pressure and reduced risk of heart disease.
The current status of salt substitute usage remains low, but researchers are hopeful that increased awareness and education will lead to greater adoption. "We need to do a better job of educating healthcare providers and patients about the benefits of salt substitutes," said Dr. Smith. "With the right information and support, we can help millions of Americans manage their blood pressure and improve their heart health."
Background:
High blood pressure affects over 100 million adults in the United States and is a leading cause of heart disease, stroke, and kidney failure. Reducing sodium intake is one of the key strategies for managing high blood pressure.
Additional Perspectives:
Dr. John Taylor, a cardiologist at the University of California, San Francisco, noted that salt substitutes can be an effective tool in managing high blood pressure, especially among patients who are unable to take medication. "Salt substitutes offer a safe and effective way to reduce sodium intake and lower blood pressure," he said.
Current Status:
The use of salt substitutes remains low, with only about 4% of Americans with hypertension using them in 2019. Researchers say that increased awareness and education are needed to promote their use among healthcare providers and patients.
Next Developments:
Researchers are hopeful that increased awareness and education will lead to greater adoption of salt substitutes. The American Heart Association is working to promote the use of salt substitutes as a safe and effective way to reduce sodium intake and lower blood pressure.
*Reporting by Sciencedaily.*
