Salt Substitutes Remain Underused Despite Potential to Lower Blood Pressure

Preliminary findings presented at the American Heart Association’s Hypertension Scientific Sessions 2025 reveal that fewer than 6% of U.S. adults use salt substitutes, despite their proven benefits in reducing sodium intake and managing blood pressure. Analysis of nearly two decades of NHANES data showed that use peaked at 5.4% in 2013–2014 but dropped to 2.5% by early 2020. Even among individuals with hypertension, adoption remained low, regardless of whether their condition was treated or untreated.

Salt substitutes replace sodium with potassium, offering an effective, low-cost approach to lowering blood pressure. However, they must be used cautiously by people with kidney disease or those on medications affecting potassium levels. Researchers emphasized that limited awareness, cost, and taste acceptance may be barriers. They urged healthcare providers to discuss salt substitutes with patients, particularly those with uncontrolled hypertension, as an underutilized strategy to reduce cardiovascular risk.

23-09-2025