*This is a short summary of the JAMA Cardiology study on salt substitutes as an effective strategy for reducing stroke recurrence and mortality. All findings, data and content referenced here originate from JAMA Cardiology. Click here for the original document.
A JAMA Cardiology study confirms that replacing regular salt with a salt substitute (75% sodium chloride, 25% potassium chloride) significantly lowers stroke recurrence and mortality.
Conducted in 600 rural Chinese villages with 15,249 stroke survivors, the study found a 14% reduction in stroke recurrence, 12% lower overall mortality and 21% fewer stroke-related deaths over five years.
Additionally, a modest but clinically significant reduction in systolic blood pressure (~2 mmHg) was observed, with no increased risk of hyperkalemia, affirming the safety of salt substitutes for stroke patients.
The study underscores salt substitution as a simple, cost-effective intervention that could be widely implemented to improve public health. With coordinated efforts from various sectors, the adoption of salt substitutes could play a significant role in reducing global sodium intake and improving public health outcomes.
*Disclaimer: Individuals with kidney disease or conditions that affect potassium excretion should consult a doctor or healthcare professional before using salt substitutes.