We reported that a high salt diet (HSD) induces metaflammation and impairs bacterial clearance in a model of pyelonephritis. This was mediated by increased serum glucorticoidlevels, which inhibited neutrophil function (Jobin et al., 2020). We also observed changes in glucose metabolism and the microbiome and recently discovered that concurrent psychological stressors exacerbate HSD-induced immune suppression in mice. Based on these findings, our project focuses on the interplay between a HSD and psychological stress. Psychological stress is known to elevate glucocorticoid levels, alter metabolism and inflammatory responses, thereby increasing the risk of infection. We aim at elucidating how stress and salt consumption synergistically promote metaflammation, thereby threatening mental and systemic health, focusing on hormonal effects on metabolic, immune and psychological alterations. We will incorporate clinical data and patient material as a basis for translating our findings into future clinical trials. Our findings may lead to new diagnostic and therapeutic options in bacterial infections.