Salt Questions · Health & nutrition
Does salt cause inflammation in the joints?
Short answer
It hasn't been shown in people. Laboratory and animal studies have found that high salt levels can boost certain inflammatory immune cells (Th17 cells), and some observational studies link high salt intake to rheumatoid arthritis risk. But there is no solid human evidence that eating salt causes joint inflammation. It remains an area of research.
Lab and animal studies suggest a link; human evidence is limited
What the lab studies found
A 2013 study in Nature showed that high salt concentrations pushed immune cells toward an inflammatory type (Th17) and worsened an autoimmune disease in mice. This sparked research into salt and autoimmune conditions.
What we know in humans
- Some observational studies associate high sodium intake with a higher risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis, particularly in smokers.
- Observational studies can't prove cause and effect.
- No good trials show that cutting salt reduces joint inflammation.
Bottom line
There are good reasons to limit salt, especially for blood pressure. A link to joint inflammation is plausible but unproven. If you have arthritis, follow your doctor's dietary advice.
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Cite this page
For school projects and reports. Teachers often prefer the original sources too: see the list below.
The Salt Almanac. (2026, November 8). Does salt cause inflammation in the joints. https://saltalmanac.com/answers/does-salt-cause-inflammation-in-the-joints
“Does salt cause inflammation in the joints.” The Salt Almanac, 8 Nov. 2026, saltalmanac.com/answers/does-salt-cause-inflammation-in-the-joints. Accessed [today's date].
“Does salt cause inflammation in the joints.” The Salt Almanac. Last modified November 8, 2026. https://saltalmanac.com/answers/does-salt-cause-inflammation-in-the-joints.
Original sources
- Kleinewietfeld M, et al. Sodium chloride drives autoimmune disease by the induction of pathogenic TH17 cells. Nature, 2013. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23467095/