New Delhi, October 31, 2016: (UNI) An estimated 2 point 5 million deaths could be prevented each year if global salt consumption were reduced to the recommended level, says World Health Organisation (WHO).
Reducing salt intake has been identified as one of the most cost-effective measures countries can take to improve population health outcomes.
Key salt reduction measures will generate an extra year of healthy life for a cost that falls below the average annual income or gross domestic product per person.
WHO member states have agreed to reduce the global population’s intake of salt by a relative 30 per cent by 2025.
Salt intake of less than 5 grams per day for adults helps to reduce blood pressure and risk of cardiovascular disease, stroke and coronary heart attack.
The principal benefit of lowering salt intake is a corresponding reduction in high blood pressure, the Health Organisation said.
Most people consume too much salt—on average 9–12 grams per day, or around twice the recommended maximum level of intake.
‘The main source of sodium in our diet is salt, although it can come from sodium glutamate, used as a condiment in many parts of the world,’ the WHO said.
High sodium consumption ( >2 grams/day, equivalent to 5 g salt/day) and insufficient potassium intake (less than 3.
5 grams/day) contribute to high blood pressure and increase the risk of heart disease and stroke.
People around the world are consuming more energy-dense foods that are high in saturated fats, trans fats, sugars, and salt.
Salt is the primary source of sodium and increased consumption of sodium is associated with hypertension and increased risk of heart disease and stroke.
Government policies and strategies should create environments that enable populations to consume adequate quantities of safe and nutritious foods that make up a healthy diet including low salt, the Health Organisation said.
‘Improving dietary habits is a societal as well as an individual responsibility.
It demands a population-based, multisectoral, and culturally relevant approach,’ it added. -United News of India
