A low-sodium diet can be a savior, especially for those suffering from sky-high blood pressure. The recommended intake is 1,500-2,300 mg, after all, and the average American inhales over 3,000 mg. But the plot thickens! A new analysis of previous research—published in the American Journal of Hypertension—reports that rapidly cutting sodium from your diet can actually increase your total cholesterol by about 2.5 percent; a spike that can lead to heart disease or even heart attacks. But take it with a grain of salt for now. The studies involved in the new research were about 30 days long or less—certainly not long enough to determine if the cholesterol fluctuations would continue.
MORE: Research Debate: Is a Low-Salt Diet Bad For Your Health?
