Too much salt can increase the chances of developing kidney impairment. A recent Japanese study observed a total of 12,126 people who had normal kidney function. After visiting the hospital between 2008 and 2015, their salt intake was assessed by estimating 24-hour urinary sodium excretion.

Through the years and after studying their medical records, researchers found that the ones with higher urinary sodium excretion had a higher risk of developing kidney impairment. The risk of developing kidney impairment is 29% higher in individuals with a higher salt intake (mean intake of 11.5g) that is approximately two times higher than those with lower salt intake (mean intake of
6.2g).

Also since salt intake increases with each gram, the chances of kidney impairment goes up by about 4.5%. Japan’s Ministry of Health recommends a salt intake level of lower than 8g per day for men and 7g per day for women.

The kidneys excrete sodium and too much salt intake puts pressure on the kidney which causes glomerular hypertension where high blood pressure damages the kidney tissues. Proteinuria, a condition where abnormal amounts of protein are in the urine can also happen.

In conclusion, the lower the dietary salt intake the better the kidney function. Some of the best ways to limit sodium include substituting high-sodium seasonings and sauces with lower-sodium seasonings like Mrs. Dash, lemon juice, vinegar, etc. This becomes especially important if you have kidney disease.

For more information about diet and what you can do to use diet to keep your CKD under control, be sure to take a look at our All-Natural Kidney Health & Kidney Function Restoration Program, which highlights some of the best dietary approaches to thrive in the face of kidney disease.

Reference:
https://www.foodnavigator-asia.com/Article/2018/10/02/High-salt-intake-linked-to-development-of-impaired-kidney-function-Japanese-study#