title: Monovalent and divalent cations in hypertension.
abstract: The relationship of four cations (sodium, potassium, calcium, magnesium) to hypertension is reviewed. It seems reasonable to advise some reduction in sodium intake, and an initial goal of a mean intake of 120 mmole per day for men and 90-100 mmole per day for women is suggested. Some increase in potassium intake may well be justifiable but is better achieved through potassium-containing foods than by any artificial supplements. The data for calcium and magnesium are not sufficiently strong to warrant any recommendation for a change in intake at present.
mesh_terms: D002118:Calcium / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000097:blood*; D004039:Diet, Sodium-Restricted; D006801:Humans; D006973:Hypertension / Q000097:blood* / Q000178:diet therapy; D008274:Magnesium / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000097:blood*; D011188:Potassium / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000097:blood*; D012964:Sodium / Q000097:blood*
chemical_list: D012964:Sodium; D008274:Magnesium; D011188:Potassium; D002118:Calcium