Yes, a high-sodium diet could damage the body over time. Sodium is an essential mineral that plays an important role in maintaining normal bodily functions such as fluid balance, nerve function, and muscle contractions. However, consuming too much sodium can lead to health problems such as high blood pressure, which can increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, and kidney damage.
A high-sodium diet can cause the body to retain excess water, which can increase blood volume and lead to higher blood pressure. Over time, this can put a strain on the heart and blood vessels, leading to cardiovascular problems. In addition, a high-sodium diet can also damage the kidneys by increasing the amount of work they need to do to filter out excess sodium from the blood. This can lead to kidney damage or even kidney failure.
Therefore, it is important to maintain a balanced diet that includes moderate levels of sodium. The American Heart Association recommends limiting sodium intake to no more than 2,300 milligrams per day, or even lower for certain individuals such as those with high blood pressure or kidney disease. Consuming a diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein sources, while limiting processed and high-sodium foods, can help to maintain a healthy sodium balance and prevent long-term damage to the body.