New Delhi: Do you also like to add an extra pinch of salt to your daily food? Well, salt intake can not only increase your blood pressure but could also increase the risk of eczema, an inflammatory condition of skin that is marked by dry and itchy patches, according to a recent study. As per the new study, high levels of sodium that is commonly consumed through salt increase the risk of skin inflammation.
Earlier studies have found the sodium present in the skin to be associated with autoimmune and chronic inflammatory conditions, such as eczema. The study has also revealed that consuming fast food is known to contain excessive dietary sodium which is linked to a higher chance of eczema, including serious ones among teens.
One extra gram of sodium may raise the risk by 22 per cent
Further, the study found that eating even one extra gram of sodium, more than the daily recommendations could raise the risk of eczema risk by 22 per cent. One gram of sodium is nearly about the amount present in half a teaspoon of table salt or a BigMac, a hamburger sold by McDonald’s the international fast food chain.
According to the World Health Organization’s recommendation, taking less than two grams of sodium in a day is fine. While the UK’s National Health Service recommends a daily intake of 2.3 grams of sodium in one day.
Researchers of the University of California San Francisco (UCSF), US stated that the chronic skin condition has become more common in recent times, especially in industrialised nations, including environmental and lifestyle factors like diet.
What is Eczema?
Eczema is a skin disease that makes the skin dry, itchy and bumpy. The condition weakens the skin’s barrier function which helps the skin to regain moisture and protect the body from outside substances, according to Cleveland Clinic.
It is a similar condition to dermatitis which is a group of conditions that causes skin inflammation.
Symptoms
Dry skin.
Itchy skin.
Skin rash.
Bumps on your skin
Thick, leathery patches of skin.
Flaky, scaly or crusty skin.
Swelling.
As per the new study, high levels of sodium that is commonly consumed through salt increase the risk of skin inflammation. Earlier studies have found the sodium present in the skin to be associated with autoimmune and chronic inflammatory conditions, such as eczema. Health Conditions Health News: Latest News from Health Care, Mental Health, Weight Loss, Disease, Nutrition, Healthcare
