What is a consequence of excessive sodium intake?

Excessive sodium intake is closely associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases. High sodium levels can lead to elevated blood pressure, also known as hypertension, which is a significant risk factor for developing heart disease and stroke. The mechanism involves sodium causing the body to retain more water, which increases blood volume and, subsequently, blood pressure. Over time, chronic high blood pressure can damage blood vessels and the heart.

In contrast, other options suggest benefits or neutral effects that are not supported by research; for instance, improved digestive health, enhanced immune response, and lower cholesterol levels are not directly linked to higher sodium consumption. In fact, excessive sodium could potentially harm gut health and does not contribute positively to immune function or cholesterol levels. Therefore, the correct identification of increased cardiovascular disease risk reflects the well-established understanding of the health impacts of high sodium diets.