However, if used incorrectly, these dishes can increase the amount of sodium introduced into the body, thereby affecting kidney and cardiovascular health.
According to the US National Kidney Foundation, the kidneys have the task of filtering and balancing sodium levels in the body. When consuming too much salt, the kidneys have to work harder to excrete excess sodium, which in the long run can contribute to increased blood pressure and increased risk of kidney damage.
Experts recommend that adults eat pickled foods in moderation instead of using them daily or eating them in large quantities in one meal. In particular, people with high blood pressure, chronic kidney disease or heart failure need to be more careful with foods high in salt.
Dr. Joseph Vassalotti, Medical Director of the US National Kidney Foundation, said that controlling the amount of sodium in your diet is one of the important measures to help protect kidney function and reduce the risk of cardiovascular complications.
A simple way to reduce salt intake is to quickly rinse pickled foods with clean water before eating. At the same time, these dishes should be combined with plenty of green vegetables, fresh fruits and potassium-rich foods if there are no contraindications from a doctor. Potassium helps balance the effects of sodium on blood pressure.
In addition, people should prioritize pickled vegetables that are hygienically processed, naturally fermented and avoid products that are too salty or show signs of spoilage. According to experts, a balanced diet with a reasonable amount of salt will help maintain long-term kidney health and limit the risk of related chronic diseases.
