The John W. Engeman Theater in Northport continues its Main Stage season with a production of Rodgers and Hammerstein’s South Pacific from May 15 to June 29.
The beloved musical takes place on a South Pacific island during World War II where two love stories are threatened by the dangers of prejudice and war. With songs such as “Some Enchanted Evening,” “I’m Gonna Wash That Man Right Outa My Hair,” “Younger Than Spring-time,” and “There Is Nothin’ Like A Dame,” the show’s lush score contains some of the best songs ever written by Rodgers & Hammerstein.
Directed by Tony-nominated director, actor, and writer HunterFoster, with musical direction by Kyle Dixon, the cast features Taylor Aronson as Nellie Forbush, Mike McGowan as Emile De Becque, Carol Angeli as Bloody Mary, Philip Bryan as Luther Billis, Malia Munley as Liat, and Alec Nevin as Lt. Joseph Cable.
The cast also includes Ellie Baker, Madeline Benoit, Michael Bingham, JR Bruno, Peyton Cassity, Ylvie Cuisine, Maxime Detoledo, Joah Ditto, Travis Flynt, Tyler Gallaher, Mike Keller, Landon Koh, Leo London, Danny Maguire, Carmella Manapat, Vivica Powell, Kristin Tagg, Matthew Wautier-Rodriguez and Elizabeth Zhang.
South Pacific‘s schedule includes Wednesdays at 7:00 p.m, Thursdays at 8:00 p.m., Fridays at 8:00 p.m., Saturdays at 2:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m., and Sundays at 2:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. Tickets start at $82 and may be purchased by calling 631-261-2900, going online at engemantheater.com, or visiting the Engeman Theater Box Office at 250 Main Street, Northport.
Selecting the perfect summer camp for your child can be a pivotal experience, shaping memories for years to come. Offering unique opportunities for kids to experience independence, build lasting friendships and develop new skills in a fun and safe environment, camps can encourage them to step out of their comfort zones, try new activities and overcome challenges away from the comforts of home.
Because campers are immersed in a variety of programs, such as outdoor adventures, arts and crafts, sports, team-building exercises and more, they often return home more resilient, confident and with a sense of achievement.
Consider these tips to choose the right summer excursion for your child.
Understand Your Child’s Interests and Needs
Before you start looking for a summer camp, consider what activities your child enjoys, whether it’s sports, arts and crafts, science or outdoor adventures. Knowing his or her preferences can help narrow down the options.
Additionally, think about your child’s personality and social needs to ensure the camp experience is tailored to his or her unique disposition. If your child is more introverted, a smaller, more intimate camp setting may be beneficial. A larger camp environment may better suit outgoing children who are eager to make new friends.
Research Camp Options and Reputations
Look for camps that offer the activities your child enjoys and have a good reputation. Read reviews from other parents and, if possible, visit the camps to get a feel for the environment. Each camp provides unique strengths, ensuring there is one for every child to enjoy and benefit from.
Check if the camps have been in operation for a significant amount of time and whether they have experienced and qualified staff. A camp with a long-standing reputation and a history of positive feedback can provide added assurance of a quality experience for your child.
Evaluate Camp Safety and Accreditation
Safety should be a top priority when choosing a summer camp. Ensure the camp is accredited by a reputable organization, such as the American Camp Association, which sets high standards for health, safety and program quality.
Inquire about safety protocols, including staff-to-camper ratios, emergency procedures and staff training in first aid and CPR. It’s also important to ask about the camp’s policies on bullying and how they handle behavioral issues that may arise.
Consider Camp Location and Duration
Decide whether you prefer a camp close to home or if you’re comfortable with your child traveling to a different region. Proximity can be beneficial in case of emergencies or if your child experiences homesickness.
Additionally, think about the length of the camp session. Some camps offer one-week sessions while others might last for several weeks or just overnight. Consider your child’s readiness for being away from home for extended periods and choose a duration that aligns with your family’s schedule and his or her comfort level.(Family Features)
Discover Long Island (DLI) has appointed current Board Chair Mitch Pally as Interim President & CEO, following the recent announcement that longtime President & CEO Kristen Reynolds’ departure to take the lead of Choose Chicago, according to a press release.
“With Pally at the helm, the organization is confidently moving forward, maintaining its strong momentum and unwavering dedication to promoting Suffolk County Long Island as a premier travel destination. A well-respected figure in the region with decades of leadership experience, Pally brings a deep understanding of the destination’s economic, political, and tourism ecosystem, as well as a steadfast commitment to ensuring a seamless transition at Discover Long Island,” read the release.
“Long Island’s tourism industry has never been stronger, and I’m honored to step into this interim role to help keep the incredible momentum going,” said Pally. “Kristen built a world-class organization over the past decade, and I’m excited to continue working with this outstanding team to ensure 2025 continues to be a landmark year for tourism, economic growth, and community pride within Suffolk County and the greater Long Island region.”
“As a longtime board member and tourism advocate, I’ve seen firsthand the positive trajectory that Discover Long Island has cultivated over the years,” said Hilton Long Island General Manager and DLI Board Treasurer, Gus Montesantos. “Even with this leadership change, our collective momentum is undeniable and the future for Long Island’s visitor economy is brighter than ever.”
Pally is no stranger to Long Island tourism and economic development. He is the former Chief Executive Officer of the Long Island Builders Institute, from 2010 to 2022, and current chair of the Midway Crossing Local Development Corporation, chair of the Long Island MacArthur Airport Advisory Board, co-chair of the Long Island Business Development Council, and a member of the Town of Brookhaven Industrial Development Corp. Pally has also served as a member of the board of commissioners of the Metropolitan Transportation Authority for 14 years and Vice President of the Long Island Association from 1986 to 2009.
Since 2012, he has also been a member of the Board of Directors of AAA Northeast, one of the four largest auto clubs in the country. Additionally, Pally has served as a partner in Weber Law Group from 2005 to 2010. He also served in the New York State Legislature from 1975 to 1985, including a position as Chief Counsel of the NYS Senate Transportation Committee. Pally has been a member of the board of Discover Long Island for the past eight years and previously served on the board of its previous tourism organization, the Long Island Convention + Visitors Bureau and Sports Commission for 12 years.
Discover Long Island’s Chief Operating Officer, Sharon Wyman, will continue to provide operational leadership and strategic support during the transition, alongside the rest of the DiscoverLong Island Board of Directors.
“Our team is energized and fully aligned in our mission,” said Wyman. “With Mitch’s trusted leadership and our dedicated staff, we won’t be skipping a beat. Long Island’s future is bright, and we’re ready to build on the strong foundation Kristen helped establish.”
“Change in leadership is a natural part of any thriving organization,” said HIA-LI President & CEO and DLI Board Member, Terri Alessi-Miceli. “What sets Discover Long Island apart here is the unity, passion, and professionalism of its team and board. The organization’s innovative approach and strong partnerships have always set the standard for destination marketing, and under Mitch’s interim leadership, I have every confidence DLI will only continue to grow stronger and more influential.”
Discover Long Island’s Board of Directors will soon initiate a formal search for a new full-time President & CEO. In the meantime, the organization remains laser-focused on its mission to drive year-round tourism, support local businesses, and celebrate the vibrancy and diversity of Suffolk County’s communities.
“Kristen Reynolds had taken Discover Long Island to new heights and amplified its impact exponentially, and Mitch Pally’s extensive experience in economic development will serve the organization well as we search for a new leader to build upon the foundation Kristen established,” said Long Island Association President & CEO and DLI Board Member, Matt Cohen.
“Adventureland has proudly partnered with Discover Long Island for many years, and we’ve never been more confident in the organization’s future,” said Steve Gentile, President of Adventureland. “The DLI team’s commitment to collaboration, innovation, and community makes us proud to stand alongside them during this next phase.”
Udya Dewanamuni, a Suffolk County Community College Honor’s Program student and NSF-I-SUCCESS STEM scholar in both chemistry and physics from Ronkonkoma, is one of only 90 high-achieving community college students nationwide selected to receive the prestigious Jack Kent Cooke Foundation’s Undergraduate Transfer Scholarship, a highly competitive national scholarship that provides up to $55,000 annually toward completion of a bachelor’s degree. This is the largest private scholarship awarded to community college transfer students in the country. Udya is the thirteenth Jack Kent Cooke scholar in the college’s 66-year history.
Beyond funding, Jack Kent Cooke Scholars receive personalized advising to guide their academic and professional journeys. Scholars also gain access to a nationwide network of more than 3,400 Cooke scholars and alumni, along with opportunities for internships, study abroad, and graduate school support – ensuring they have every tool needed to thrive beyond community college.
This year’s selection process drew more than 1,600 applications from community colleges across the nation. The 90 new Scholars were selected from a semifinalist pool of 467 students. Applicants were evaluated based on their academic achievement, unmet financial need, persistence, and leadership qualities.
A Physics major, Udya holds a 4.0 GPA and has earned consistent recognition on the Dean’s List for two years. She is a Get There From Here scholar, an Honors Program student and serves as Vice President of Leadership for Phi Theta Kappa. She serves as a Student Government Senator and President of the Math Club. An NFS-I-SUCCESS STEM scholar and tutor in both chemistry and physics, Udya has engaged in interdisciplinary research projects with Brookhaven National Laboratory, Oklahoma State University, Boston University, and the Mathematics Department at Suffolk. She is also a recipient of numerous awards, most notably the SUNY Chancellor’s Award for Student Excellence, Coca-Cola Academic Team Gold Scholar, PTK All-State Academic Team, and the winner of the PTK NY Region Nontraditional Student Award. In the fall, she will be studying Chemical and Biological Engineering and is currently awaiting final admissions decisions from Harvard, Yale, Princeton, MIT, and Stanford.
“We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Udya for achieving this remarkable honor, which reflects not only her exceptional accomplishments but also brings great pride to Suffolk County Community College,” stated Dr. Edward Bonahue, Suffolk County Community College President.
“Udya is the epitome of a great student. From the moment she started in our program she took advantage of all opportunities we have to offer and not only succeeded but thrived. She not only celebrated her own success, but she used her experiences to encourage others. According to Deanna Downs, Coordinator of the Physical Science Learning Center, Udya is the most sought-after tutor and students regularly praise both her deep understanding of physics and chemistry and her ability to break down complex topics with clarity. Udya’s impact reaches far beyond her own academic success, and she has left a meaningful legacy that will continue to inspire long after she graduates,” said Sean Tvelia, Professor and Academic Chair of the Physical Sciences Department at Suffolk County Community College.
“Being selected as a Jack Kent Cooke Transfer Scholar is an incredible honor that allows me to continue my academic journey towards becoming a physician-scientist,” said Udya Dewanamuni. “This recognition is not just a personal achievement but a reflection of the amazing support of my community, and it motivates me to keep striving for excellence while helping others achieve their dreams as well. Ultimately, this scholarship empowers me to keep moving forward, aiming to become the best version of myself daily!”
About Suffolk County Community College
Suffolk County Community College is the largest, most comprehensive community college in the State University of New York (SUNY) system, enrolling more than 21,000 students in over 100 degree and certificate programs. With approximately 145,000 alumni, Suffolk County Community College is dedicated to meeting the demands of regional employers. The college has built an extensive track record of successfully training and educating its students through pathways from high school to college and into careers.
About the Jack Kent Cooke Foundation
The Jack Kent Cooke Foundation is dedicated to advancing the education of exceptionally promising students who have financial need. Since 2000, the Foundation has awarded almost $304 million in scholarships to more than 3,400 students from 8th grade through graduate school, along with comprehensive educational advising, career pathway counseling and other support services. The Foundation has also provided $136 million in grants to organizations that serve such students. www.jkcf.org
If an amusement park suddenly changed the criteria that would allow visitors to ride on a roller coaster or log flume, the number of potential customers would suddenly climb.
The same holds true for the number of people whom doctors are diagnosing with autism.
Over time, health care professionals have changed the definition of autism, recognizing the heterogeneous nature of a diagnosis that is often different from one individual to the next.
Debra Reicher. Photo courtesy Stony Brook University
Recently, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the head of Health and Human Services, suggested that he planned to share a detailed analysis of autism by this September to explain the increase in the number of people who receive such a diagnosis.
Based on numerous reports, Kennedy indicated he would present research findings at the end of the summer that explains why and how the number of cases of autism and other childhood chronic diseases has risen.
“The biggest, most widely agreed reason for the increase in numbers is the broadening of the diagnostic criteria,” said Debra Reicher, Clinical Psychologist and Assistant Professor at the Renaissance School of Medicine at Stony Brook University.
Over her 35 years in the field of autism, Reicher said the definition of autism has changed.
“We are getting better at diagnosing people at the higher end of the spectrum,” she said.
When Reicher started in the field, about 80 percent of those diagnosed with autism also had an intellectual developmental disorder or cognitive delay. That is currently closer to 40 percent.
“We are getting better at identifying people who have good cognitive skills,” and who have autism, Reicher added.
Over time, the male-female gap has also narrowed. Historically, boys and men were more likely to receive an autism diagnosis.
Clinicians are getting better at understanding the presentation of autism in females, who have different symptoms that can fly under the radar.
Girls are more likely to “mask or camouflage” autism, which physicians might miss, Reicher added.
Matthew Lerner
People are also more aware of autism as a diagnosis.
“Young parents are tracking their child’s development and are asking their pediatricians questions,” Reicher said. That leads to earlier detection.
On a smaller but not insignificant level, some studies suggest that older ages of fathers can also contribute to autism.
“Advanced paternal age is a statistically significant predicator of increased rates of autism,” said Matthew Lerner, Research Associate Professor and Research Director of the Autism Initiative at Stony Brook University.
Premature babies, who are much more likely to survive today than they were even a few decades ago, can also receive an autism diagnosis as they develop.
More support
At the same time, health systems are not only more actively screening for autism, but they are also providing more support and benefits.
By offering people and their families services, these health care systems are providing people with autism care, making a diagnosis a potential starting point for more care.
“If somebody was diagnosed with autism in the 1980s, there weren’t a lot of things that folks could do,” said Lerner, who is also Associate Professor and Leader of the Life Course Outcomes Program Area at the AJ Drexel Autism Institute at Drexel University.
Some research also suggests a correlation between environmental exposure or pollutants and the incidence of the condition.
Researchers, however,caution that a correlation doesn’t necessarily indicate a causation, which is a significant challenge in the world of science and medicine.
A correlation may or may not be relevant in the context of a disease or the treatment for it. Researchers who can conclude based on larger and statistically significant samples a cause between something like environmental exposure and a disease can reduce the likelihood of a condition.
To be sure, despite considerable chatter through online forums, the Internet and people who have limited or no medical expertise, people in the autism field have not seen any evidence that vaccines for diseases like measles have any connection with autism.
The studies that were done in the 90s and early 2000s that suggested a potential link between autism and vaccines were biased and were eventually retracted in a journal, Reicher said.
“Research shows no difference in the rates of autism between vaccinated and unvaccinated children,” she added.
Some new or expectant mothers are hesitating to give their children a measles, mumps and rubella shot.
Reicher urges parents to study the issue carefully and to provide the kind of protection that will prevent the spread of infectious diseases and the lifelong consequences of contracting measles.
Reicher suggested that some of the fear comes from the fact that MMR is given around the time physicians recognize the symptoms of autism.
“With vaccines, there’s no evidence to support” a connection with autism, Reicher added.
New research
Researchers and clinicians welcomed the possibility of new studies that might help the heterogeneous community of people with autism.
New work done with “rigorous science that have reputable approaches and ask meaningful questions” could be “fantastic” for people with autism and their support networks, Lerner said.
To be sure, Lerner doesn’t anticipate any major findings in the development of autism, particularly in the context of vaccines or any other speculation that researchers have tested for decades.
The notion that significant studies from around the world that thousands of researchers conducted over the course of decades would suddenly be overturned in the next four months “seems highly implausible,” he said.
Lerner hopes that any focus on autism research that the current administration conducts respects and adheres to the level of rigor necessary to make any changes in diagnosis, treatment or potential causes.
At this point, Reicher, who has spent decades working with a wide range of people with autism, has seen many people with autism live “wonderful, successful, fulfilling lives.” People with autism are “making huge contributions to the arts, to science and to everything in between.”
Understanding and enhancing an awareness of autism through well-documented and rigorous research could help some people with the diagnosis, although a one-size-fits-all approach won’t work for a larger population that has different symptoms and needs.
A recent photo of Owl Hill. Photo from Leg. Trotta's office
Since 2016, Suffolk County Legislator Rob Trotta has worked tirelessly to preserve Smithtown’s unique Owl Hill estate and its 27 acres from being developed into multiple housing units. His efforts prevailed as Suffolk County purchased the entire parcel from the developer for $8.3million using money from the Suffolk County Drinking Water Protection Fund.
Suffolk County Legislator Rob Trotta accepts the award for “Organization Excellence” from Preservation Long Island’s Director Tara Cubie. Photo courtesy of PLI
The sprawling property is home to the 117-year-old, 6,500 square foot mansion designed by world-renowned American architect Henry Killam Murphy. Noted first patent attorney, Edmund Wetmore, commissioned Murphy to design it. Inside the mansion, there is an impressive mahogany staircase, mahogany floors and paneling; library; wood paneled dining room; eight bedrooms; music/living room; five bathrooms; kitchen; several fireplaces; basement, and much more. The dining room has an “owl” motif on the chairs, as well as the matching buffet. The grounds include stunning plants and mature trees, along with a garage and outer building.
On January 25, 2025, at its biennial awards ceremony, Preservation Long Island (PLI) awarded Legislator Trotta and Suffolk County with its biennial Preservation Award for “Organizational Excellence” for their efforts to preserve Owl Hill as a valuable resource in the community. Trotta is very committed to preserving the storied historic estate and adapting it for continued cultural and civic programs.
The public is invited to attend an “Open House” to see the property and “Owl Hill” on Saturday, May 24, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Owl Hill is located at 99 Sunken Meadow Road, Fort Salonga. For more information or questions, please call Legislator Trotta’s district office at 631-854-3900.
When we feel achy, nauseous and dizzy, we know something is wrong. We might visit the doctor, take cold medicine or cancel plans in order to get some rest.We quickly equate the corporeal symptoms with a physical ailment and treat the illness appropriately. A cut requires a bandage, a broken bone needs a cast.
When we are mentally struggling, the problem is more difficult to diagnose. Our stubborn minds, too smart for their own good, may equivocate and minimize the pain, convincing ourselves that in the absence of physical symptoms, pain should not exist. We are busy–kids need rides to school, deadlines loom and work piles up. There isn’t time for a quiet moment to check in with our emotions.
It may seem inconvenient, or even embarrassing for us to admit that our mental state is suffering, but we can’t outrun, outwork or suppress something as vital as mental health. We shouldn’t accept it as a weakness or as an unavoidable dispositional quality. Help awaits to alleviate our discomfort or suffering.
Prolonged distress or anxiety has physical consequences, such as high blood pressure, weight fluctuation, heart disease and sleep issues. We shouldn’t ignore our minds.
Mental illness doesn’t discriminate by age, gender or class. Stigmas surrounding asking for help differ by demographic, with men less likely to reach for help when they are struggling. Prescribing to stereotypes and gender roles contributes to the idea that men shouldn’t ask for help, or are failing in their masculinity if they do. Less than half of men suffering from depression or anxiety actually seek help.
It may seem like we are alone–that there must be something wrong with us for feeling anxious or depressed or paranoid. This is untrue. The World Health Organization estimates that 1 in 8 adults suffer from mental disorders each year.
It is time to prioritize mental health instead of pushing it to the side. If something is off with friends or loved ones–they aren’t as enthusiastic about their hobbies, aren’t eating as much or are eating more than normal, or are isolating themselves– make sure they know you are there to support them and get them any help they may need. If you feel your mental health slipping, lean on those around you or call the Suffolk County’s Mental Health Helpline at 631-471-7242.
Sometimes, just opening up and talking about what you are feeling can ease the pain. Other times, contacting a professional could be what work best.
After weeks of preparation, fourth and fifth grade orchestra students at Pines Elementary School in the Hauppauge School District welcomed New York City-based composer, teacher and Broadway musician Eric Davis, the composer of one of their concert pieces.
Students first performed for Mr. Davis, showcasing their hard work and interpretation of his piece, “Dark Forest Legend.” Following their performance, Mr. Davis took the baton and led an interactive workshop on his composition. He shared stories about the inspiration behind the song, the narrative he hoped to convey and even how his original title was initially rejected by the publisher.
“It’s always rewarding to watch the students work with the original composer,” said orchestra teacher Tracey DeRose. “Seeing them learn directly from the expert is a delight.”
After the workshop, students asked Mr. Davis questions about the life of a composer.
Students asked thoughtful questions, gaining a deeper understanding of what it takes to create music.
A scene from the 'Goals for Giving' fundraiser at Newfield High School. Photo courtesy of MCSD
A scene from the 'Goals for Giving' fundraiser at Newfield High School. Photo courtesy of MCSD
A scene from the 'Goals for Giving' fundraiser at Newfield High School. Photo courtesy of MCSD
A scene from the 'Goals for Giving' fundraiser at Newfield High School. Photo courtesy of MCSD
A scene from the 'Goals for Giving' fundraiser at Newfield High School. Photo courtesy of MCSD
A scene from the 'Goals for Giving' fundraiser at Newfield High School. Photo courtesy of MCSD
A scene from the 'Goals for Giving' fundraiser at Newfield High School. Photo courtesy of MCSD
The Middle Country School District Boys Lacrosse team recently hosted its annual “Goals for Giving” fundraiser at Newfield High School, marking another successful year of community spirit and charitable giving. Organized by Regina Giambone, the event rallied widespread support from the district’s athletic department, administration, students, parents, and teams.
“We are incredibly proud of the boys lacrosse team and the entire district community for coming together in support of such a meaningful cause,” said Newfield High School Principal Scott Graviano. “It was great seeing the enthusiasm and joy in the air as everyone represented their teams, schools and Middle Country with pride.”
Funds raised during the event will directly benefit the Middle Country School District’s Special Education Program, with this year’s contributions earmarked for enhancing sensory rooms across the District’s schools by adding new, adaptive equipment.
Supporters showed their enthusiasm and solidarity by purchasing and proudly wearing event T-shirts featuring the official “Goals for Giving” logo, both during the school day and at the evening game. The event also featured a spirited 50/50 raffle and a variety of gift baskets, generously donated by local businesses and community members.
The district extends its heartfelt thanks to all who participated, contributed, and made this event possible.
For more information regarding the Middle Country Central School District and its students’ many achievements, please visit the District’s website: https://www.mccsd.net/.
Most Americans consume far too much sodium — an average of 3400 mg per day, which is well over the 2300 mg per day recommended upper limit for teens and adults (1). It’s become such an issue that the FDA is working with food manufacturers and restaurants to drive these numbers down (2).
If you don’t have hypertension, what difference does it make? Sodium can have a dramatic effect on your health, regardless of your blood pressure.
It’s hard to avoid, with sodium hiding even in foods that don’t taste salty, like bread products and salad dressings. Other foods with substantial amounts of sodium include cold cuts and cured meats, cheeses, poultry, soups, pasta, sauces and, of course, snack foods. Packaged foods and restaurant meals are where most of our consumption occurs.
In contrast, only about two percent of people consume enough potassium in their diets (3). According to the National Institutes of Health, target potassium intake is between 2600 mg and 3400 mg for adult women and men, respectively.
How are sodium and potassium related?
A high sodium-to-potassium ratio increases your cardiovascular disease risk by 46 percent, according to a 15-year study of more than 12,000 participants (4).
A more recent analysis of over 10,000 participants followed for almost nine years tested sodium and potassium excretion, a more reliable measure of intake, and found that higher sodium excretion, lower potassium excretion, and a higher sodium-to-potassium ratio were all associated with a higher cardiovascular risk (5). Each daily incremental increase of 1000 mg in sodium excretion was associated with an 18 percent increase in cardiovascular risk.
To improve your overall health, you might need to shift your sodium-to-potassium balance so that you consume more potassium and less sodium. And if you struggle with — or are at risk for — high blood pressure, this approach could help.
Why lower your sodium consumption?
Two studies illuminate the benefits of reducing sodium in high and normal blood pressure patients, ultimately preventing cardiovascular disease, including heart disease and stroke.
The first was a meta-analysis that evaluated data from 34 randomized clinical trials, totaling more than 3,200 participants. It demonstrated that salt reduction from 9-to-12 grams per day to 5-to-6 grams per day had a dramatic effect. Blood pressure in both normotensive and hypertensive participants was reduced by a significant mean of −4.18 mm Hg systolic (top number) and −2.06 mm Hg diastolic (bottom number) (6).
When looking solely at hypertensive patients, the reduction was even greater, with a systolic blood pressure reduction of −5.39 mm Hg and a diastolic reduction of −2.82 mm Hg.
The researchers believe that the more we reduce salt intake, the greater the blood pressure reduction. The authors recommend further reduction to 3 grams per day as a long-term target and hypothesize that the effects on blood pressure will most likely result in a decrease in cardiovascular disease.
In the second study, a meta-analysis of 42 clinical trials including both adults and children, there was a similarly significant reduction in both systolic and diastolic blood pressures (7). Both demographics experienced a blood pressure reduction, although the effect was greater in adults. Interestingly, an increase in sodium caused a 24 percent increased risk of stroke incidence but, more importantly, a 63 percent increased risk of stroke mortality. The risk of mortality from heart disease increased by 32 percent alongside an increase in sodium.
Isn’t too little sodium a risk?
Some experts warn that sodium levels that are too low can be a problem. While this is true, it’s very rare, unless you have a health condition or take medication that depletes sodium. Since sodium is hiding everywhere, even if you don’t add salt to your food, you’re probably consuming more than the recommended amount of sodium.
Why focus on potassium consumption?
In a meta-analysis involving 32 studies, results showed that as the amount of potassium was increased, systolic blood pressure decreased significantly (8). When high blood pressure patients consumed foods containing 3.5 to 4.7 grams of potassium, they experienced an impressive −7.16 mm Hg reduction in systolic blood pressure. Anything more than this amount of potassium did not provide additional benefit. Increased potassium intake also reduced stroke risk by 24 percent.
Blood pressure reduction was greater with increased potassium consumption than with sodium restriction, although this was not a head-to-head comparison. The good news is that it’s easy to increase your potassium intake; it’s found in many whole foods and is richest in fruits, vegetables, beans and legumes.
So, what’s the bottom line? Decrease your sodium intake and increase your potassium intake from foods to strike a better sodium-to-potassium balance. As you reduce your sodium intake, give yourself a brief period to adapt; it takes about six weeks to retrain your taste buds.
References:
(1) Dietary Reference Intakes for Sodium and Potassium. Washington (DC): National Academies Press (US); 2019 Mar. (2) fda.gov. (3) nih.gov. (4) Arch Intern Med. 2011;171(13):1183-1191. (5) N Engl J Med 2022;386:252-263. (6) BMJ. 2013 Apr 3;346:f1325. (7) BMJ. 2013 Apr 3;346:f1326. (8) BMJ. 2013; 346:f1378.
Dr. David Dunaief is a speaker, author and local lifestyle medicine physician focusing on the integration of medicine, nutrition, fitness and stress management. For further information, visit www.medicalcompassmd.com or consult your personal physician.
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