Aldosterone: a cardiometabolic risk hormone?

INTRODUCTION A aldosterone is a component of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system, classically known for its role in sodium and water retention. Besides its effects, has been shown that the aldosterone is associated with the pathogenesis and progression of metabolic syndrome components. A better understanding of this system and interfering factors could help develop pharmacotherapeutic alternatives for several disorders. OBJECTIVES Investigate the relationship between diet and aldosterone, and its influence on cardiometabolic risk factors. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION Diet can affect plasma aldosterone levels; high fructose and fat intake can lead to increased aldosterone levels, whereas the effect of sodium intake remains controversial. Adipose tissue, particularly visceral tissue, appears to produce a lipid-soluble factor that increases aldosterone production. Patients with metabolic syndrome have higher aldosterone levels; moreover, an increased cardiometabolic risk associated with insulin resistance could be partially mediated by the action of aldosterone via mineralocorticoid receptors. Even a subtle activation of this hormonal system may have deleterious effects on the glucose and lipid metabolism related to metabolic syndrome. Nevertheless, additional studies are required to better understand the interactions among adipose tissue, aldosterone, and cardiovascular risk as well as the possible role of diet.