An important thing you probably don’t know about diabetes can help you ‘prevent Type 2 diabetes’ – a new study suggests

A new study challenges conventional wisdom on Type 2 diabetes prevention, putting the spotlight on salt consumption.

For the first time, a research initiative has established a correlation between regular consumption of salt and the onset of Type 2 diabetes.

Individuals predisposed to Type 2 diabetes are generally advised to limit their sugar intake. However, emerging research indicates that reducing salt intake is equally important.

Tulane University conducted a study, subsequently published in Mayo Clinic Proceedings, which demonstrated a link between consistent salt addition to meals and a heightened risk of developing Type 2 diabetes.

This extensive study involved over 400,000 adult participants from the UK Biobank, tracking their salt consumption habits. Following an 11.8-year median observation period, upwards of 13,000 participants were diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes.

The data revealed that, in comparison to those who seldom or never added salt to their meals, individuals who added salt “sometimes,” “usually,” or “always” faced a 13%, 20%, and 39% increased risk of Type 2 diabetes, respectively.

“We already know that limiting salt can reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases and hypertension, but this study shows for the first time that taking the saltshaker off the table can help prevent Type 2 diabetes as well,” remarked Dr. Lu Qi, the study’s lead author and a distinguished faculty member at Tulane University’s School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine.

Dr. Qi speculates that high salt intake may promote overeating, thereby elevating the risk of obesity and inflammation—factors known to contribute to Type 2 diabetes.

The study also noted a correlation between frequent salt intake, higher Body Mass Index (BMI), and increased waist-to-hip ratio.

Dr. Qi emphasizes the need for further investigation to comprehensively understand the connection between salt intake and Type 2 diabetes risk.

The next phase of research will involve controlled clinical trials to observe the effects of regulated salt consumption.

In the meantime, Dr. Qi encourages everyone to explore low-sodium seasoning alternatives, stating, “It’s not a difficult change to make, but it could have a tremendous impact on your health.”

Source: 10.1016/j.mayocp.2023.02.029

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