A diet high in salt could lead to permanent memory damage in men, according to new research that highlights potential links between sodium intake and cognitive decline.
The study found that men who consumed excessive amounts of sodium experienced a noticeable drop in memory performance over a six-year period, particularly when recalling past events. However, the same effect was not observed among women.
Researchers said the findings, based on an analysis of around 1,200 people aged over 60, could help contribute to efforts aimed at delaying the onset of dementia. The results were published in the journal Neurobiology of Aging.
The study also suggested that individuals with a strong genetic risk factor for Alzheimer’s disease who consumed high levels of salt were more likely to be diagnosed at an earlier age.
Dr Samantha Gardener of Edith Cowan University in Australia, the study’s lead author, said the research provides early evidence of a link between sodium intake and cognitive health, although further studies are needed to understand the underlying mechanisms.
She added that previous research indicates high-salt diets may contribute to brain processes associated with cognitive decline, but more evidence is required before clear dietary recommendations can be made.
Health authorities, including the UK’s National Health Service (NHS), recommend adults consume no more than 6g of salt per day, roughly equivalent to one teaspoon.
Experts note that lifestyle changes could play a significant role in dementia prevention, with previous estimates suggesting up to 40 per cent of cases may be avoidable through such measures.
Dementia currently affects nearly one million people in the UK, a number projected to rise significantly in the coming decades. Alzheimer’s disease accounts for around 60 per cent of cases and remains the country’s leading cause of death.
The findings add to growing global research efforts focused on understanding and reducing the risk of cognitive decline in ageing populations.
