A Mechanistic Trial of Dietary Sodium Reduction on Vascular Structure and Function
Tulane University
Summary
The proposed mechanistic trial will test the effect of dietary sodium reduction on cardiac and vascular structure and function in those with elevated blood pressure or hypertension. Findings from this study will fill the knowledge gap on the underlying mechanisms of dietary sodium intake on cardiovascular disease risk in addition to blood pressure and could provide further evidence on sodium reduction for the prevention of cardiovascular disease.
Description
High dietary sodium intake increases risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) independent of established risk factors, including blood pressure (BP). Non-BP mediated mechanisms underlying the increased risk of CVD associated with dietary sodium intake are not well understood, but observational studies suggest direct target organ damage in the heart and vasculature might play an important role. Little evidence exists from randomized controlled trials (RCTs) on target organ effects of dietary sodium reduction, and the National Academy of Medicine has recommended future research to "test the effects…
Eligibility
- Age range
- 40+ years
- Sex
- All
- Healthy volunteers
- No
Inclusion Criteria: * Men or women aged ≥40 years. Individuals \<40 years are at a low risk for clinical and subclinical CVD * Elevated BP or hypertension (systolic BP ≥120 mmHg and diastolic BP ≥80 mmHg with or without use of antihypertensive medications) Exclusion Criteria: * Glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) \<30 or end-stage renal disease (kidney transplant or chronic dialysis) * History of cardiovascular disease * Shift worker or regularly work at night * Cancer requiring chemotherapy or radiation treatment in the previous two years * Current pregnancy or breastfeeding or plans to beco…
Interventions
- BehavioralSodium Reduction Intervention
The sodium reduction intervention is a dietician-led behavioral intervention consisting of two phases, first a 3-month intensive intervention phase, followed by a 9-month maintenance phase. The overall goal of the intervention is to reduce sodium intake to \<2,300 mg per day based on the most recent guideline from the National Academies of Medicine. Both phases will include individual and group behavioral modification counseling designed to facilitate a reduction in dietary sodium intake.
Location
- Tulane University Office of Health ResearchNew Orleans, Louisiana