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ASK BONNIE for June 2001


Question #1:

I recently heard that high consumption of sodium does not cause hypertension. Is this true? Please help me in getting the problem solved.

Answer #1: 

This is not a simple answer. Not all sodium is created equal. Sodium from sea salts very seldom cause hypertension, although in salt sensitive people, it can exacerbate the problem.

Sodium chloride (table salt) may be a bigger culprit. The worst offenders, however, are Monosodium Glutamate (MSG) or Aspartame (Nutrasweet) because they block vitamin B-6 and the mineral Magnesium. When B-6 is blocked, there is no natural way to remove excess fluid, which can cause hypertension. Magnesium and Potassium are critical for electrolyte balance. When Magnesium is blocked, Potassium cannot get into cells properly to balance sodium. Too little Magnesium and Potassium can therefore precipitate hypertension because the sodium portion of cells become waterlogged.

I have many hypertensive patients who control it well when we add B-6 and Magnesium to their supplement regimen, while removing all MSG and Aspartame from their diets.

Have a happy, healthy day.

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