What is a potential consequence of consuming excessive amounts of sodium?

Consuming excessive amounts of sodium can lead to an increased risk of heart disease and stroke, making this choice the most accurate. High sodium intake is known to contribute to hypertension, or high blood pressure, which is a major risk factor for heart health issues. With elevated blood pressure, the heart must work harder to pump blood, and over time this can lead to damage of the blood vessels, increasing the likelihood of cardiovascular problems such as heart disease and stroke. This is particularly significant in populations that are already predisposed to hypertension.

The other choices do not accurately reflect the consequences associated with high sodium consumption. For example, weight loss is generally not linked to increased sodium intake; rather, high sodium levels can cause the body to retain water, which may lead to temporary weight gain. Improved muscle function is also unrelated, as adequate sodium is needed for muscle function, but excess can cause health issues instead. Decreased thirst is counterintuitive because higher sodium levels can actually stimulate thirst as the body seeks to maintain fluid balance. Thus, the connection between excessive sodium consumption and cardiovascular risks underscores the importance of managing sodium intake for overall health.