One teaspoon of salt contains 2 grams of sodium. Although salt is the major source of sodium in processed foods, many of these other forms of sodium are added as preservatives or for flavor. Older people in particular should be cautious about using too much sodium. Having a family history of HBP and being overweight are major factors too. HBP, in turn, can lead to heart disease, stroke, and kidney failure.
Blood pressure rises with age and is much more common in the elderly.
Restricting the amount of sodium in the diet helps lower HBP in many individuals who already have the disease. It also can increase the effectiveness of drug treatment, making lower doses possible. As people grow older their sensitivity to flavors and smells usually decreases. Because of this, there may be a desire for more salt to combat the flat taste of foods. Cutting down on salt may sound difficult and distasteful.