High blood pressure treatment calls for combined sodium cut and potassium boost

New research by the University of Vermont finds that reducing sodium intake alone is not enough to control hypertension. Increasing dietary potassium at the same time can significantly improve blood‑pressure outcomes, prompting a recommendation that guidelines address both minerals together. Foods rich in potassium—fruits, vegetables, legumes and dairy—should be emphasized, as most people consume excess salt and insufficient potassium.

Health advice warns that certain symptoms such as severe headache, ringing in the ears, dizziness, blurred vision, chest pain or shortness of breath may indicate dangerously high blood pressure and require immediate medical attention. Regular monitoring is recommended even for asymptomatic individuals. Lifestyle measures—including lower salt, balanced nutrition, regular exercise, weight control, smoking cessation, moderate alcohol use and stress management—remain key to preventing and managing hypertension.