Diabetes mellitus and high blood pressure are a dangerous combination which poses a threat to the body's blood vessels and may lead to kidney damage, strokes and worse.
Salt (sodium) does not exceed is the element in the diet that boosts blood pressure and complicates high blood pressure management. A low salt diet is advisable. Salt substitutes may be used for flavoring.
Chips, pretzels, salted nuts, cold cuts, Chinese specialties and many processed foods have a high salt content and should be avoided. Diuretics used to lower blood pressure act by flushing salt out of the body. It would be unwise to eat salty foods and then use medication to get rid of it. I advise the public to read food labels and focus on sodium content per serving. Patients with hypertension should make sure their daily sodium consumption does not exceed 2000 mg.
