How can high sodium intake affect blood pressure?

High sodium intake is directly linked to an increase in blood pressure, a condition known as hypertension. When sodium consumption is high, the body tends to retain more water to help balance the concentration of sodium in the bloodstream. This results in an increased volume of fluid in the blood vessels, which can raise blood pressure.

When there is more fluid circulating through the arteries, it places additional pressure on the artery walls. Over time, this heightened pressure can lead to chronic hypertension, which significantly increases the risk of cardiovascular problems like heart disease and stroke. Therefore, recognizing the relationship between sodium intake and blood pressure management is critical for overall cardiovascular health.

Other options suggest that sodium either lowers blood pressure, has no effect, or improves circulation. These statements do not align with current understanding of hypertension and sodium’s role in fluid balance and cardiovascular function.