Sodium reduction refers to the intentional decrease of sodium intake in the diet, primarily to manage hypertension and reduce cardiovascular risk. It is clinically significant as excessive sodium can lead to fluid retention, increased blood pressure, and heightened risk of stroke and heart disease. A key example of sodium reduction is the DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) diet, which emphasises fruits, vegetables, and low-fat dairy while limiting processed foods high in sodium.
