How relevant is the research?
One big question from this study is whether it can be applied anywhere and in countries other than China.
Cardiologists say: “Although I wish I could say yes, it is more realistic to say maybe no.
The researchers also note that because the study looked at high-risk populations, the findings may not carry over to other populations (for example, people without high blood pressure and without previous stroke).
This is also a study of a unique genetic/cultural group with specific eating habits/patterns and may not translate to other populations.
The biggest barrier to reducing sodium intake in the US is that much of our sodium intake is not within our control.
“In rural China, most meals are cooked from scratch, so sodium intake is within the control of the food processor. Americans consume more processed and processed foods – and a lot of them provide a lot of sodium even before we pick up the salt shaker,” the doctors explained.