The Gut Microbiome, Inflammation, and Salt-Sensitive Hypertension.

Salt sensitivity of blood pressure (SSBP) is an independent predictor of death due to cardiovascular events and affects nearly 50% of the hypertensive and 25% of the normotensive population. Strong evidence indicates that reducing sodium (Na) intake decreases blood pressure (BP) and cardiovascular events. The precise mechanisms of how dietary Na contributes to elevation and cardiovascular disease remain unclear. The goal of this review is to discuss mechanisms of salt-induced cardiovascular disease and how the microbiome may play a role.