No, salt is not bad for cholesterol itself.
While limiting salt intake is important for overall heart health, it doesn't directly impact your cholesterol levels. The primary benefit of reducing salt intake is to lower blood pressure, which in turn reduces the risk of heart diseases.
Here's a breakdown of the relationship between salt, cholesterol, and heart health:
- Salt and Blood Pressure: Excessive salt intake can lead to high blood pressure (hypertension). High blood pressure puts strain on your heart and blood vessels, increasing the risk of heart disease.
- Cholesterol and Heart Disease: High cholesterol levels, particularly LDL ("bad") cholesterol, can contribute to the buildup of plaque in your arteries (atherosclerosis). This plaque narrows the arteries, restricting blood flow and increasing the risk of heart attack and stroke.
- Salt's Indirect Effect: According to the reference, "Limiting salt won't lower your cholesterol, but it can lower your risk of heart diseases by helping to lower your blood pressure." Therefore, salt's impact on heart disease is related to its influence on blood pressure and not cholesterol levels.
To reduce sodium intake, consider these strategies:
- Choose low-salt or "no added salt" foods.
- Use salt-free seasonings and herbs.
- Read food labels carefully to monitor sodium content.
| Feature | Impact |
|---|---|
| Salt intake | Increases blood pressure |
| High blood pressure | Increases risk of heart disease |
| Cholesterol levels | Directly affect atherosclerosis risk |
| Limiting Salt | Won't lower cholesterol. Lowers risk of heart disease by helping to lower blood pressure. |
