Eat Right Practice Exam

What is the effect of excessive salt consumption on health?

1. It enhances kidney function.

2. It can lead to hypertension.

3. It decreases fluid retention.

4. It improves digestion.

The correct answer is: It can lead to hypertension.

Excessive salt consumption is primarily associated with health risks, notably its contribution to hypertension, or high blood pressure. When salt intake is high, it leads to an increase in sodium levels in the bloodstream. This prompts the body to retain more water to maintain a balance, which can increase the overall blood volume. Elevated blood volume puts additional pressure on the walls of blood vessels, resulting in hypertension. Hypertension is a significant risk factor for various cardiovascular diseases, including heart attacks and strokes. Therefore, managing salt intake is crucial for maintaining optimal blood pressure and overall cardiovascular health. The other options suggest effects that either do not align with the known impacts of high salt consumption or misrepresent potential health benefits. For example, while kidney function is critical, excessive salt can actually strain the kidneys as they work to filter out the excess sodium. Similarly, high salt intake does not promote fluid retention; rather, it has the opposite effect by causing the body to hold onto more fluid. Lastly, while salt plays a role in certain culinary aspects, it does not inherently improve digestion significantly when consumed in excess.