Researchers Say Effervescent Pills May Contain Harmful Amount of Salt
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iStockphoto/Thinkstock(NEW YORK) — Researchers caution that the salt in stomach remedies and effervescent pills, often used to reduce heartburn or indigestion after a Thanksgiving dinner, may be doing more harm than good.
A study from the U.K. found that the salt used in many remedies for digestive issues could actually contribute to high blood pressure and make heart problems worse. By analyzing data from over one million people — some of whom took high-sodium dissolving medications and others who took regular pills — researchers determined that of those who suffered heart attacks, strokes or death were 18 percent more likely to have taken the high-sodium medications.
Researchers do caution that the additional salt may not be the only explanation for the increased heart risk, though high sodium levels have been linked to a number of health problems.
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