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01 November 2025
The Shocking Science Behind Salt and Memory Loss
The impact of salt on the brain could be far more dangerous than previously thought. Researchers, led by a team from Jianghan University, found that surplus sodium not only harms the heart and affects blood pressure, but also significantly undermines cognitive abilities. Quite literally, the brain “slows down”—making it harder to recall facts, connect ideas, and maintain concentration. But how exactly does this process work and what did the scientists uncover?
To find the answers, the researchers designed a compelling experiment. In simple terms, they tested two groups of rodents fed two different diets—one low in salt and one high—for over two months. Following this period, the rats received several memory tasks. The tests aimed to demonstrate how the animals’ brains would cope under the pressure of poor nutrition.
Why Are Brain Studies Conducted on Mice?
- Genetic similarity to humans: Mice share about 85 percent of their genes with humans. Brain mechanisms such as neuron communication and memory processes work in similar ways.
- Short life cycle and rapid reproduction: This allows researchers to observe long-term effects and genetic inheritance in a short period of time.
- Genetic modification capabilities: Mice can be genetically modified to study the role of specific genes in brain function.
- Standardization and reproducibility: Mice are easy to breed and maintain in controlled environments, ensuring more reliable experimental results.
- Ethical and practical aspects: Some experiments cannot ethically be performed on humans; using mice allows safe and controlled brain research.
Source: WHO, CDC, scientific publications on animal models in neurological research
The Destructive Impact of Salt on Brain Communication
The results were crystal clear: the rodents on the high-sodium diet began experiencing serious difficulties executing even simple commands. What happened inside their heads? The neurons in their brains simply stopped cooperating with each other, all because of a noticeable drop in the level of the crucial SHANK1 protein. Put plainly, salt deregulated the brain’s internal communication system, a key factor in salt and memory loss.
This single protein, SHANK1, was the culprit; its value plummeted due to the salt’s action. This outcome powerfully confirms the researchers’ hypothesis—the brain is not immune to a high-sodium diet.
However, the scientists took a fascinating next step. Since they understood what the sodium was degrading, they wanted to determine if they could reverse the experiment’s outcome. And that’s when things got truly interesting. The researchers gave the rodents an injection designed to reactivate the brain structures damaged by the salt. The effect? The animals almost instantly began performing better in the memory tests. This suggests a powerful conclusion: the brain is repairable, but first, we need to stop feeding it excessive salt.
Even though these findings, published in the scientific journal Advanced Science, sound like a stark warning against salty foods, the researchers themselves are tempering expectations. Why? Because the study has limitations—it was conducted exclusively on rats. This means we cannot be certain that the effect of sodium on the human brain would be exactly the same.
Furthermore, the rodents received very high doses of salt to induce the effect quickly and clearly. In real life, humans consume salt differently—less at once, but regularly over decades. That crucial, long-term impact remains an open question.
New Discoveries Offer Hope for Future Cognitive Therapies
Nevertheless, the scientists’ discoveries offer real hope to individuals struggling with memory issues or other cognitive function disorders. If the influence of sodium on the brain is as powerful as the results suggest, we may soon see new therapies emerge.
This new approach will not only limit the negative effects of diet but also protect our brains from damage resulting from daily eating habits. Ultimately, this opens the door to new methods in the fight against neurodegenerative diseases, potentially giving the brain a second chance. For anyone worried about salt and memory loss, the first and simplest step starts with the kitchen.
Fighting Dementia and Cognitive Decline: Simple Steps
Globally, more and more people suffer from conditions that reduce cognitive ability, including dementia. Furthermore, sodium in the diet contributes to weight gain, stomach cancers, and puts a heavy load on the kidneys.
That is why a healthy diet is so crucial. You can dramatically limit the risk factors for these diseases by starting with small, practical steps. The first, most impactful change should be reducing sodium in your diet.
Scientific Tips to Cut Back on Sodium
Excessive salt intake increases the risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends adults consume less than 5g of salt daily. Here are practical tips to help you lower your sodium intake:
- Choose Low-Sodium Products: Read labels and select products with less sodium, especially in processed foods. Source: WHO
- Create Your Own Spice Blends: Instead of salt, use herbs like oregano, garlic, basil, thyme, rosemary, paprika, and parsley. Source: Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health
- Season After Cooking: Season your food at the table, not during the cooking process, to better control the amount you use. Source: CDC
- Limit Processed Foods: Cheeses, cold cuts, and baked goods often contain surprising amounts of sodium. Source: WHO
- Opt for Fresh Meats and Fish: Avoid smoked or salted varieties, which naturally have a higher sodium content. Source: CDC
- Cut Down on Sodas and Isotonic Drinks: These can contain hidden sodium; choose water instead. Source: WHO
Read this article in Polish: To nie mit: sól może pogarszać pamięć. Oto co mówią badania
