What health issue is commonly linked to excessive consumption of processed foods high in sodium?

Excessive consumption of processed foods high in sodium is strongly associated with heart disease due to the impact of sodium on blood pressure and overall cardiovascular health. A high-sodium diet can lead to hypertension (high blood pressure), which is a significant risk factor for heart disease and stroke. When sodium levels are elevated, the body retains more fluid to balance the high sodium concentration, which increases the volume of blood in circulation and puts additional strain on the heart and blood vessels. Over time, this increased workload can contribute to the buildup of plaque in arteries (atherosclerosis), further elevating the risk of heart-related issues. Additionally, heart disease encompasses a range of problems, including coronary artery disease, heart attacks, and heart failure, all of which can be exacerbated by a diet high in sodium found in many processed foods.