Scientists at Edinburgh University in Scotland found that excess salt in the body can increase the stress hormone by 75%.
The study was conducted on laboratory mice and was published by the journal Cardiovascular Research.
The mice were fed foods high in salt. Biologists found that the rodents became more stressed than in their normal state.
Stress hormone levels doubled both at rest and under stress.
At the same time, salt intake also affected the levels of the genes responsible for the production of proteins in the brain that control the stress response.
The scientists added that excessive salt intake is common and contributes to cardiovascular deterioration.
For an adult, the recommended norm is 6 grams, but statistically, most people consume at least 9 grams.
The research team will continue to work to find out what other dangers are posed by excess salt intake.