J Nutr Health.  2024 Feb;57(1):65-74. 10.4163/jnh.2024.57.1.65.

Correlation between sodium intake and obesity with related factors among Koreans: a cross-sectional study on dietary intake and eating habits

• Park JS
• Akbar H
• Yim JE

• KMID: 2553706
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.4163/jnh.2024.57.1.65

Abstract

Purpose
Sodium is essentially required for homeostasis and physiological functions, but excessive sodium consumption increases the risk of obesity and other chronic disorders. Korean studies on the sodium-obesity relationship are limited, and thus, this study was undertaken to determine the nature of the relationship between sodium intake and obesity in Korean adults.
Methods
Forty-two participants were divided into 2 groups according to body mass index (BMI, non-obese BMI < 25 kg/m² , obese BMI ≥ 25 kg/m² ). Dietary intakes and eating habits were analyzed using 3-day food records and a food frequency questionnaire. Anthropometric data were obtained from bioimpedance results, and fasting glucose and lipid levels were measured.
Results
Mean weight, BMI, waist and hip circumferences, and body fat mass were greater in the obese group than in the non-obese group for men and women. Skeletal muscle mass and body fat mass were higher in obese women than in non-obese women. Biochemical data were no different in these two subgroups except triglycerides (TGs), which were higher in obese women. Nutrient intakes were not significantly different in obese and non-obese groups. However, obese men consumed excessive sodium, while obese women consumed slightly more than non-obese women. Obese men preferred salty foods and tended to overeat. Positive correlations were found between sodium intake and weight in men and percent body fat mass (PBFM) in women. Correlation analysis (adjusted for energy intake) of the relation between sodium intake and obesity-related factors showed sodium intake was positively correlated with PBFM and TG in women.
Conclusion
This anthropometric and biochemical data analysis emphasizes the need for awareness and interventions to mitigate the health risks of elevated sodium consumption. Our findings should aid future studies on the relationship between sodium and obesity and contribute to preventing and managing this metabolic condition.

Keyword

sodium; obesity; dietary intake; eating habits; nutrient intake