Salt is an ingredient present in food. It is either present in processed foods, such as ready meals, processed pancakes, bread, ham, or is added to foods during cooking in the form of broth or bouillon cubes. It is also added to the table in the form of sauces such as soy sauce, or directly with table salt.
How to reduce the amount of salt?
The World Health Organization states that public policies and strategies must create environments that allow people to consume healthy amounts of salt. Although some manufacturers reformulate to reduce the salt content of their products, consumers should read labels to choose low-sodium products.
But how much salt should you consume every day?
The World Health Organization recommends consuming less than 5 grams (slightly less than a teaspoon) of salt per day (1).
For children 2 to 15 years of age, it is recommended to reduce the maximum recommended adult dose.Additionally, the agency recommends All table salt must be iodized, that is, “rich” in iodine, This is essential for healthy brain development in fetuses and young children and for optimizing overall mental function.
Tips for reducing salt intake at home:
- Do not add salt when preparing food
- Don’t put the salt shaker on the table
- Limit salty snacks
- Choose low-sodium products
Myths About Reducing Salt Intake
There are some misconceptions about reducing salt consumption. The World Health Organization denies some, so people try to reduce their salt consumption.
A misconception is that food without salt has no flavor, and the World Health Organization explains that as taste buds get used to less salt, people may eventually appreciate their food and discover more flavor in it.
Another misconception about salt is that sea salt is no better than refined salt simply because it is natural. According to the World Health Organization, regardless of the source of salt, it is sodium that causes health problems.
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“Only older people should worry about the amount of salt they consume.” The World Health Organization denies this false belief because Eating too much salt can increase blood pressure at any age.