The World Health Organization (WHO) has issued guidelines recommending the use of lower-sodium salt substitutes, including potassium chloride, in an effort to reduce sodium intake and combat hypertension. The guidelines aim to promote public health behavior change, particularly among adults in India, where excessive salt consumption is a significant risk factor for cardiovascular diseases.
Sodium, the primary ingredient in salt, affects blood pressure by increasing water retention and promoting more salt naturally. Reducing salt consumption can lead to improved cardiovascular health and lower blood pressure. The WHO recommends limiting sodium intake per person to below 2 grams per day to reduce blood pressure and related non-communicable diseases (NCDs).
Studies have consistently shown that reducing salt consumption has a positive impact on cardiovascular health, including lowering systolic and diastolic blood pressure. However, some experts caution that upping potassium intake may not be suitable for individuals with kidney disease.
The WHO hopes to address this issue by providing guidance on the use of low-sodium salt substitutes for policy-makers, programme managers, health professionals, and other stakeholders in their efforts to reduce sodium intake and combat hypertension. To achieve this goal, the organization is launching a public awareness campaign to educate people about the impact of salt on health.
Industry experts stress that reducing sodium chloride consumption would be beneficial in India, where cardiovascular diseases are prevalent. However, they also emphasize the need for “signal labelling” on food products to guide consumers towards making healthy choices.
The government has been urged to mandate the use of low-sodium salt alternatives and work with industry to display these alternatives at eye level on supermarket shelves and shops. As costs decrease with wider adoption, experts believe that changing behavior effectively is key to promoting healthier habits.
Source: https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/health/sodium/article69158576.ece