Researchers at the University of Alabama found too much salt can contribute to resistant high blood pressure, even if the patient is taking medications to control it. High blood pressure is resistant when blood pressure remains above normal despite taking medications. High blood pressure that is under control, but requires four or more medications to treat it, is also called resistant hypertension.
 
Sticking to a low-salt diet may improve treatment for resistant hypertension. Sodium also contributes to fluid retention in kidney disease patients.

This article originally appeared in the October 2008 issue of AAKP Diet Tips & Bits.