Salt studies cause confusion

Q. I have always believed that salt was a health hazard, and I have worked hard to eliminate sodium chloride from my diet. I was alarmed to read headlines recently that cutting salt might increase heart risks. That’s just the opposite of what I’ve been told. Can you fill me in on the evidence?

A. Millions of people share your confusion. Many doctors also are perplexed by recent studies suggesting that low-salt diets may have unexpected negative consequences.

A study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (May 4, 2011) assessed blood pressure in relationship to a sensitive measure of sodium intake. The study lasted eight years and included more than 3,500 healthy people. Salt intake was not related to a diagnosis of hypertension. What’s more, people consuming the least sodium were most likely to die from cardiovascular complications.

A recent meta-analysis of 167 experimental studies found that reducing sodium had a modest impact on blood pressure (American Journal of Hypertension online, Nov. 9, 2011). There were negative effects, however. People on low-salt regimens had higher levels of cholesterol and triglycerides, as well as stress hormones such as adrenaline, renin and aldosterone. Elevations in these hormones might undo the benefits of sodium restriction.

Q. I have taken a number of statins to help control cholesterol and am currently on simvastatin. Through the years, my blood- sugar levels started to climb despite my efforts to eat a healthy diet and exercise.

My doctor recently diagnosed me with type 2 diabetes and prescribed metformin. It is giving me awful stomach pain, gas and diarrhea. Now I am beginning to wonder whether the statins have caused my diabetes. My doctor says no, but I have read that they can. Maybe if I could lower my cholesterol without a statin, I wouldn’t need metformin to get my blood sugar under control. Do you have any recommendations?

A. There is growing recognition that statin-type cholesterol-lowering drugs can raise blood sugar, especially at higher doses (Journal of the American Medical Association, June 22/29, 2011; Lancet, Feb. 27, 2010). Some people may be more susceptible to this complication. It may be possible to control your cholesterol with different drugs or with changes in your diet. Medications such as niacin or psyllium may help.

Our book “Best Choices From The People’s Pharmacy” provides specific details on foods, natural supplements and medications to control blood fats and glucose. It may be purchased online at www.peoplespharmacy.com or for $24.95 plus $5 s/h from: Graedons’ People’s Pharmacy (Dept. BC), P.O. Box 52027, Durham, NC 27717-2027.

Natural approaches that might help include cinnamon, vinegar, oolong tea and herbs such as bitter melon, fenugreek and stevia.

Q. I have very dry eyes that are red and sore. My doctor said to use artificial tears, but they have not made much improvement. Any suggestions?

A. Eye doctors we have consulted recommend Systane BALANCE and Soothe XP. These formulations are designed to protect the surface of the eye and replenish the tear film lipid layer (Clinical Ophthalmology online, June 10, 2011).

2011 King Features Syndicate, Inc.