Recent findings by German researchers shed light on a potential health hazard lurking in an unexpected place – effervescent tablets. As it turns out, these seemingly innocuous tablets are rich in sodium, a known contributor to elevated blood pressure.
According to a study conducted by the Robert Koch Institute (RKI), more than one-third of adults in Germany, exceeding 20 million individuals, grapple with hypertension. The ramifications of high blood pressure extend beyond mere numbers, posing a substantial risk to vital organs such as the heart, kidneys, and brain. The German Heart Foundation underscores its association with heart failure, cardiac arrhythmias, heart attacks, and premature mortality.
The Culprits of Hypertension
Hypertension, with its multifaceted origins, is attributed to various factors, including:
- Overweight
- Sedentary lifestyle
- Unhealthy, plant-deficient diet
- Frequent smoking
- Excessive alcohol consumption
- Elevated stress levels
The excessive consumption of common table salt, rich in sodium, also plays a pivotal role. Sodium, a component of salt, attracts water, leading to an increase in blood volume and subsequent pressure within the blood vessels. Individuals grappling with hypertension are advised to monitor their sodium intake, especially avoiding:
- Processed meats like Kasseler or ham
- Cheeses such as Parmesan, Gouda, and Gorgonzola
- Pretzels and other salted pastries
- Highly salted fish like Rollmops and Matjes
- Canned vegetables
Deciphering Blood Pressure Levels
Understanding blood pressure levels is crucial for effective management. The following table provides a comprehensive breakdown, sorted in descending order based on the “Classification” column:
| Classification | Blood Pressure Values |
|---|---|
| Optimal | <120mmHg/<80mmHG |
| Normal | 120-129/80-84 mmHg |
| Isolated Systolic Blood Pressure | >140/<90 mmHg |
| High-Normal | 130-139/85-89 mmHg |
| Hypertension Grade 3 | >180/>110 mmHg |
| Hypertension Grade 2 | 160-179/100-109 mmHg |
| Hypertension Grade 1 | 140-159/90-99 mmHg |
Sodium Secret in Effervescent Tablets
Additionally, individuals with hypertension should exercise caution with effervescent tablets. A recent study by scientists at the University Hospital Saarland reveals that these tablets contain significant amounts of sodium, responsible for facilitating tablet dissolution in water.
Interestingly, sodium content is not mandated to be disclosed for over-the-counter products, a point emphasized by Michael Kunz, a medical professional at the University Hospital Saarland. However, pharmaceutical-grade products must explicitly declare sodium content, although this information often goes unnoticed.
Recommendations and Call to Action
In light of these findings, researchers advise individuals with hypertension to consult with a healthcare professional before opting for effervescent forms of vitamin supplements, cough suppressants, or pain relievers like Paracetamol or Aspirin. The German Society for Cardiology – Cardiovascular Research (DGK) aligns with this caution, recommending patients choose these remedies in capsule or film tablet form.
Moreover, the researchers from the University Hospital Saarland call upon effervescent tablet manufacturers to transparently communicate the potential risk for individuals with hypertension or consider reformulating their products with reduced sodium content. This proactive measure aims to safeguard the health of consumers and aligns with the broader goal of promoting cardiovascular well-being.
Original source: This information was Initially covered by focus.de and has been translated for our readers.
