Comparative effects of salt substitutes on blood pressure, cardiovascular events and mortality: a systematic review and network meta-analysis.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Hypertension is a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Salt substitutes may reduce sodium intake while maintaining palatability, but comparative effects across formulations remain uncertain.

Methods

We conducted a systematic review and frequentist random-effects network meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials in adults comparing salt substitutes with regular salt, other substitutes or no intervention. Databases (PubMed, Embase, CENTRAL, CNKI, Wanfang), WHO-ICTRP and ClinicalTrials.gov were searched from inception to Oct 3, 2025 (PROSPERO CRD42023451859). We assessed the risk of bias using a modified Cochrane tool and conducted a random-effects network meta-analysis, with evidence certainty evaluated through the GRADE approach.

Results

We incl

SUBMITTER: Lai H 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12911277 | biostudies-literature | 2026 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature