ACE Health Coach Certification Practice Test

Excessive consumption of which electrolyte can contribute to hypertension and osteoporosis?

1. Vitamin C

2. Sodium

3. Vitamin K

4. Iron

The correct answer is: Sodium

The choice of sodium is correct because excessive sodium intake is well-documented to contribute to hypertension, or high blood pressure. Sodium helps regulate fluid balance in the body, and when consumed in excess, it can lead to increased water retention. This, in turn, puts extra pressure on the blood vessels, resulting in elevated blood pressure. Additionally, sodium plays a role in bone health. High sodium intake can lead to increased calcium excretion through urine. Calcium is crucial for maintaining bone density, and when calcium levels drop, it can contribute to bone loss over time, thereby increasing the risk of osteoporosis. This connection highlights the negative impact that excessive sodium consumption can have not only on cardiovascular health but also on skeletal health. In contrast, Vitamin C, Vitamin K, and iron have different roles and are not directly linked to increased risks of hypertension or osteoporosis when consumed in typical dietary amounts. Vitamin C is primarily known for its antioxidant properties, Vitamin K is essential for proper blood clotting and bone metabolism, and iron is crucial for blood production and oxygen transport, but none of these have a significant impact on blood pressure or directly promote bone loss when present in normal dietary levels.