What are potential health risks associated with excessive sodium intake?

Excessive sodium intake is closely linked to several health issues, most notably high blood pressure, which is also known as hypertension. When sodium levels in the body are high, this can lead to an increase in fluid retention, placing added strain on the heart and blood vessels. Over time, this elevated pressure can result in serious cardiovascular problems, including heart disease and stroke.

High sodium intake can also disrupt the body's balance of electrolytes and contribute to various other conditions. For instance, a diet that is consistently high in sodium can lead to arterial stiffness, promoting the development of atherosclerosis, a condition characterized by the hardening and narrowing of the arteries.

In contrast, the other options do not directly correlate with the well-established link between sodium intake and blood pressure or cardiovascular health. While obesity, diabetes, kidney stones, liver disease, digestive problems, and certain cancers have their own risk factors and dietary considerations, excessive sodium intake is specifically recognized for its strong association with hypertension and cardiovascular diseases.