Socio-demographic factors in relation to habitual sodium and potassium intakes among adults in Trinidad and Tobago

Abstract

Background:

Approximately one-third of adults in Trinidad and Tobago have high blood pressure (hypertension). Excessive consumption of sodium (Na⁺) is a known risk factor for hypertension.

Aim:

We investigated Na⁺ and potassium (K⁺) intakes and their correlates in a multi-ethnic Caribbean population.

Method:

Volunteers completed a self-administered questionnaire comprising socio-demographic items, physical activity (PA) and a semiquantitative food frequency questionnaire. Foods eaten were classified by level of processing using the NOVA classification system and analysed for Na⁺ and K⁺ levels using appropriate dietary analysis software. The study was approved by the University of the West Indies at Saint Augustine Ethics Committee.

Results:

11,783 adults participated in the study. Approximately 83.2% of total calories, 79% of Na⁺ and 40% of K⁺ was derived from the consumption of highly processed foods. Median daily Na⁺ and K⁺ intakes were 2759 mg and 2853 mg, respectively. Na⁺ intakes showed significant nonlinear increases with age (p < 0.001) and body mass index (BMI) (p < 0.001), and non-linear decreases with educational attainment (p < 0.001). K⁺ intakes showed significant nonlinear decreases with age (p < 0.001) and BMI (p < 0.001), and linear increases with educational attainment (p < 0.001). Males had higher intakes of Na⁺ and K⁺ than females. Na⁺: K⁺ was lower among persons participating in moderate to high intensity PA ≥ 150 minutes/week compared to those participating in such activities < 150 minutes/week.

Conclusion:

Socio-demographic factors were significantly correlated with Na⁺ and K⁺ intakes among participants and must be considered in strategies aimed at achieving healthy intakes of these nutrients.