Excessive alcohol consumption has been associated with elevated blood pressure, cirrhosis of the liver, pancreatitis, certain cancers, heart diseases, neurological diseases, and nutritional deficiencies. Moderate alcohol consumption has been associated with lower risk of coronary heart disease. Iron and Calcium Men usually consume adequate quantities of iron and calcium. High sodium intakes have been associated with high blood pressure and stroke. In the US about one-third of adults have high blood pressure.
Table salt is the main dietary source of sodium.
Salt is frequently added to processed food. Some people are more susceptible to salt-induced hypertension than others. Frequent consumption of foods preserved in salt also may increase the risk of stomach cancer. Dietary Fiber Consuming foods high in dietary fiber is usually beneficial in managing constipation and diverticular disease. The data are inconclusive as to whether dietary fiber plays a protective role in coronary heart disease, colon and certain other cancers, hypertension, and gallstones.