K. Kisters1,2,3,4, S. Kisters4,5, F. Tokmak1, U. Gröber3, O. Micke4, HG Classen4, H.G. Predel6, H. Reuter7
1Operasan Dialysis Centre, Herne, 2Med. Univ. Policlinic, Münster, 3Academy for Micronutrients, Essen, 4Society for Magnesium Research, Tutzing, 5 Dental Univ. Clinic, Cologne, 6Institute of Cardiovascular Research and Sport Medicine, German Sport University, Cologne, 7Dpt. of Internal Medicine and Cardiology, EVK Cologne Weyertal, Cologne, Germany
Changes in electrolyte metabolism in essential hypertension have often been descibed. The correct nutrition in hypertension is therefore of special interest. The new ISH Guidelines in the management of hypertension of September 2023 published in the Journal of Hypertension summarize the nutritial aspect of non pharmacological drug treatment of hypertension. German Hypertension League recommends salt reduction in hypertensives besides drug treatment. A high salt nutrition can lead to an increased arterial stiffness, a reduced compliance of large arteries, increased pulse wave velocity, heart insufficiency and reduced glomerular filtration. Recommended is a daily salt uptake below 6 g.
Potassium can be a substitute for sodium. The daily amount of potassium is about 4000 – 5000 mg, for magnesium 300 – 400 mg/daily.
Mediterranean nutrition, potassium and magnesium rich, has to be preferred according to ISH Guidelines. Calcium and phosphate are still of minor interest in the treatment of hypertension.