Objective: The objective of this study was to investigate the influence of socioeconomic determinants and lifestyle behaviors on sodium and potassium intake, as well as the sodium-to-potassium ratio, in the adult Croatian population. Design and method: This study included participants from the EH–UH 2 nationwide cohort who provided valid 24-hour urine samples, enabling the assessment of sodium and potassium intake. Sociodemographic characteristics (educational attainment, professional qualifications, and household income) along with lifestyle behaviors (smoking status, alcohol consumption, physical activity, and dietary patterns) were collected using a structured questionnaire. The study was conducted from 2019 to 2022 and included 2,048 participants. Results: A clear socioeconomic gradient was evident, with individuals in higher income groups demonstrating increased potassium intake and reduced sodium consumption. Similarly, participants with the highest educational attainment exhibited the most favorable dietary profile, characterized by elevated potassium intake, lower salt consumption, and the lowest sodium-to-potassium ratios. Conversely, those with lower income, limited education, and lower professional status were more likely to exceed 10 g/day of salt, consume insufficient potassium (less than 3 g/day), and present an elevated, unfavorable sodium-to-potassium ratio (more than 2.5). Conclusions: Low-income populations should be prioritized in dietary interventions, with emphasis on reducing salt intake, promoting potassium-rich foods, and education on healthier alternatives to salt, including herbs and spices, which are widely available in Mediterranean countries. Empowering these groups to adopt a balanced sodium-to-potassium intake is essential for reducing health disparities and the burden of diet-related chronic diseases.
Glavić et al. (Fri,) studied this question.