Both potassium and sodium are essential electrolytes that regulate bodily functions, with their balance being crucial for maintaining healthy blood pressure levels.

Recent research from the University of Waterloo suggests that increasing dietary potassium intake may be more effective in lowering blood pressure than simply reducing sodium intake.

The researchers created a mathematical model to analyze how potassium-to-sodium ratios affect blood pressure, revealing notable differences in responses between men and women.

High blood pressure, which affects over 30% of adults globally, is a significant risk factor for serious health issues such as coronary heart disease, stroke, and chronic kidney disease.

This study underscores the importance of mathematical models in health research, allowing for quick, cost-effective, and ethical investigations into dietary impacts on health.

Utilizing complex computer simulations, the study modeled the interactions between sodium, potassium, and blood pressure instead of conducting tests on human subjects.

The findings, published in the American Journal of Physiology-Renal Physiology on March 3, 2025, highlight the relevance of diet in combating the global rise in hypertension.

The research was funded by the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada, with the authors reporting no conflicts of interest.