MODULE SUPPLEMENT: CARDIOVASCULAR SYSTEM
Sodium and Activity

Populations that do not have much sodium in their diets and that are active do not seem to have as much arterial stiffening. Sodium may influence arterial stiffening through its role in the control of the calcium concentration in vascular cells and vascular tonus (Lakatta, 1992). However, no cause and effect relationship has been definitely shown.

Exercise may also moderate vascular stiffness by maintaining cardiovascular fitness and efficiency (Lakatta, 1993; Monahan, Dinenno, et al., 2001; Moreau, Donato, et al., 2003). Thus, although changes do occur in trained older adults, the changes are less extensive or occur at an older age.