Dietary Salt Intake Must be Restricted for Indians Irrespective of their Salt Preference and Sensitivity

Abstract

Excess dietary sodium (Na) or salt is associated with 17–30% of hypertension globally. Hypertension is one of the top ten risk factors for mortality and cardiovascular disease (CVD) worldwide. In India, hypertension contributes to about 10% mortalities and is responsible for 37% and 24% of stroke and CHD deaths, respectively.[1] Reports suggest that one in four in urban India and one in five in rural India among the adults have hypertension.[2] Excess dietary salt intake is an important modifiable risk factor for hypertension. Compared with those consuming ≥2 g Na/d, adults consuming <2 g Na/d had a 3.5 mmHg lower mean systolic blood pressure (SBP) and 1.8 mmHg lower mean diastolic blood pressure (DBP).[3] Nevertheless, salt intake around the world ranges from 6.0 to 11.8 g/d, which is far in excess of the recommended levels. The WHO recommends a daily Na intake of <2 g, or <5 g salt/d, for adults.[4] The current salt intake among Indian adults is far higher than the recommended level.[5] Indians have been taking much more salt as against the 5 gm per day limit recommended by WHO, as reported by by the Public Health Foundation of India (PHFI). The studies have reported that salt intake in Delhi and Haryana was 9.5 gms per day and 10.4 gms per day in Andhra Pradesh. Although it is permissible to have high salty foods occasionally while attending parties, it should not be a regular dietary habit. If high intakes of salt are a regular feature in the diet, that could be harmful to human health. The diet plays a significant role in managing the individual’s blood pressure and cardiovascular health. Diet for a high blood pressure patient should be low on sodium, and a good mix of fibre-rich fruits, whole grains and veggies. Indians should be aware of the fact that the dangers of excessive salt intake are modifying their diets unlike other international communities like Australians who are sticking to high-salt foods though they are aware of its effects. Indians consume 9% more salt than the global average of 10.06 gm.  Read more...