High-Salt Diet Linked To Faster Memory Decline In Men

SYDNEY -A diet high in salt may accelerate memory decline in men, Australian researchers have found, highlighting the importance of dietary choices in supporting brain health.

The study found that higher sodium intake may impair episodic memory, which helps people recall personal experiences and past events, such as where they parked a car or their first day of school, according to a statement issued on April 15 by Australia’s Edith Cowan University.

Researchers measured baseline sodium intake and tracked cognitive decline in 1,208 participants over 72 months. They found that men with higher sodium intake experienced faster episodic memory decline, while no similar link was observed in women.

The findings were published in the journal Neurobiology of Ageing.

While sodium plays several important physiological roles in the body, high sodium consumption has consistently been associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease and high blood pressure.

Lead researcher Samantha Gardener said the molecular mechanisms behind the process are not yet fully understood, but high sodium intake may contribute to brain inflammation, damage blood vessels and reduce blood flow to the brain.

The findings add to growing evidence that long-term dietary habits can influence cognitive health and ageing outcomes. (IANS)