Health

Salt Is Leading Global Killer, Says WHO

New Delhi: Salt, the essential culinary ingredient also poses health risks. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), around 1.89 million people die each year because of too much salt, leading to high blood pressure and more heart problems.

Sodium

Sodium, widely found in table salt, is an essential nutrient that helps maintain the normal functioning of cells. It is also found naturally in a variety of foods, such as milk, meat, and shellfish. However, taken in excess amounts, sodium increases the risks of heart disease, stroke, and premature death, states a report by WHO.

A report by the Harvard Medical School also states that excessive sodium intake leads to high blood pressure, which further increases the risk of developing heart failure. It also causes complications in those with existing heart failure.

How much salt does the WHO recommend for adults?

For adults, WHO recommends less than 2000 mg/day of sodium, which is equivalent to just under a teaspoon. However, for children, the dosage can be adjusted as per their energy requirements. WHO also suggests that salt consumed should be iodized (fortified with iodine) – essential for healthy brain development.

How to reduce salt intake

WHO recommends eating fresh, minimally processed foods and keeping a check on the amount of salt you add to your meals. Also, avoid having salt as is on the sides.

 

OB Bureau
Share
Published by
OB Bureau

Recent Posts

Latest Odisha Breaking News Updates | Monday, 24 February 2025

Stay ahead with Odisha Bytes Breaking News - your ultimate source for the fastest, most… Read More

52 minutes ago

Champions Trophy: Virat Kohli (100*) Masterclass Floors Pakistan; Check Milestones He Conquered

Dubai: ODI cricket, Pakistan – they bring out the best in Virat Kohli. The Dubai… Read More

8 hours ago

3 Arrested For Looting Govt Official By Using Toy Gun In Odisha

Cuttack: Three criminals were arrested by Choudwar police in Odisha’s Cuttack district for allegedly looting… Read More

8 hours ago

ISL: 10-Man Odisha FC Go Down 0-1 To Toppers Mohun Bagan Via Injury-Time Goal

Kolkata: Odisha FC fought gallantly in the lion’s den but finally returned empty-handed. Up against league… Read More

8 hours ago

Caught Using AI To Solve Maths Problem, Class X Board Exam Candidate Loses A Year!

Kolkata: A West Bengal secondary board exam (Madhyamik) candidate recently took Artificial Intelligence (AI) to… Read More

9 hours ago

4th Batch Of Illegal Immigrants Back: 12 Indians Deported From US To Panama Arrive At Delhi’s IGI Airport

New Delhi: A fourth batch of Indian nationals deported from the US arrived at Indira… Read More

9 hours ago