Researchers at the University of Waterloo have conducted computer simulations to simulate whole-body fluid and electrolyte homeostasis, and the effects of sodium and potassium intake on blood pressure.
Excessive dietary sodium raises blood pressure, whereas a high potassium diet has the opposite effect. The underlying mechanisms are moderated by sex and involve multiple organs and tissues. How do high potassium-induced alternations in kidney function lower blood pressure, and how do those mechanisms differ between men and women? To answer these questions, a duo of researchers at the University of Waterloo conducted computer simulations to simulate whole-body fluid and electrolyte homeostasis, and the effects of sodium and potassium intake on blood pressure. High blood pressure affects over 30% of adults globally. It's the leading cause of coronary heart disease and stroke and may also lead to other afflictions like chronic kidney disease, heart failure, irregular heartbeats, and dementia. "Usually, when we have high blood pressure, we are advised to eat less salt," said Professor Anita Layton, corresponding author of the…