Dementia, characterized by impaired thinking and memory loss, is becoming an increasing concern for the elderly population, posing significant health, social, and economic challenges.
This is particularly true in China, which has the world’s largest aging population. With dementia being irreversible and lacking effective treatment options, prevention and early detection are vital.
Sodium and Potassium’s Role in Cognitive Function
Several lifestyle choices, including diet, physical activity, and sleep, are linked to cognitive function.
A new study from China, published in Global Transitions, examines the less explored impact of dietary sodium and potassium on cognitive function.
Study Overview
The study assessed the cognitive function of 4,213 participants, all aged 50 or older, in relation to their dietary intake of sodium, potassium, the sodium to potassium ratio, and salt.
Key Findings
The researchers found that high intake of sodium (> 5593.2 mg/day) and a high sodium to potassium ratio (> 3.8/day) were associated with an increased risk of memory impairment in the elderly.
On the other hand, higher potassium intake (> 1653.3 mg/day) was linked to better cognitive scores. The cognitive test score increased by approximately one point when 1000 mg/day of sodium was replaced with an equivalent intake of potassium.
Furthermore, the study demonstrated that the impact of dietary sodium, the sodium to potassium ratio, and potassium on cognitive function could potentially be mediated by cardiovascular and cerebrovascular disease (CCVD), while the association between salt and cognitive function could be influenced by sleep patterns.
Despite China’s efforts to limit sodium and salt intake for over a decade, consumption levels remain high, exceeding global recommendations. This high sodium intake is coupled with inadequate potassium consumption.
Implications and Recommendations
These findings reinforce previous suggestions that the sodium-to-potassium ratio may provide a better understanding of these elements’ cognitive implications, rather than considering sodium or potassium intake individually.
Ai Zhao, the study’s corresponding author, suggests, “Reducing sodium intake and appropriately increasing potassium intake could benefit cognitive function.
Given our findings and the dietary habits of the Chinese population, future research should aim to determine the optimal ratio of dietary sodium and potassium in the elderly.
Developing strategies to improve this dietary ratio should also be prioritized.” The study was published in Global Transitions.
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If you care about dementia, please read studies about low choline intake linked to higher dementia risk, and how eating nuts can affect your cognitive ability.
For more information about brain health, please see recent studies that blueberry supplements may prevent cognitive decline, and results showing higher magnesium intake could help benefit brain health.
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