Which statement best describes salt intake in heart failure management?

• A. No salt restriction is necessary
• B. High-salt diet is beneficial
• C. Low-salt diet is recommended
• D. Salt intake should be unlimited

Answer: (C)

Sodium control helps manage fluid balance in heart failure. When the heart isn’t pumping effectively, the body activates systems that retain sodium and water. Eating a lot of salt increases water retention, raises preload, and worsens edema and shortness of breath. A low-sodium diet helps limit fluid buildup, reduce edema, ease breathing, and improve the effectiveness of diuretics. Therefore, a low-salt intake is recommended. Worsening approaches, like no restriction or high/unlimited salt, would tend to worsen fluid overload and symptoms.