Sodium is known to raise blood pressure (and sometimes greatly), so doctors generally recommend limiting it. Check with your healthcare professional before you up your intake -- if you consume an amount that's not good for you, it can lead to heart failure (especially if you're older).
Other possible causes for foot, leg, and ankle swelling include certain medical conditions or body changes, such as: Natural hormonal changes: Fluctuating levels of estrogen and progesterone can cause reduced circulation in the legs, resulting in swelling.
The following can cause foot pain: 1  Arthritis and gout: Common in the big toe, which becomes red, swollen, and very tender. 2  Broken bones.  Bunions: A bump at the base of the big toe from wearing narrow-toed shoes or from abnormal bone alignment.