On the occasion of World Heart Day ( Sept. 29) the World Health Organization (WHO) has called for reducing salt intake to cut the number of people with heart disease and stroke and in turn save lives.
Non-communicable diseases, including heart diseases and stroke, are the leading causes of premature death in the 21st century.
According to WHO Global Action Plan to reduce non-communicable diseases, reducing global salt intake by a relative 30 percent by 2025 is one of the important targets.
“If the target to reduce salt by 30% globally by 2025 is achieved, millions of lives can be saved from heart disease, stroke and related conditions,” Oleg Chestnov, WHO assistant director-general, said in a statement.
High BP
Consuming too much salt can lead to high blood pressure, and greatly increase the risk of heart disease and stroke. Chestnov noted that reducing salt intake is one of the most effective ways to improve people’s health.
However, WHO said people consume around 10 grams of salt per day, almost double the recommended level of salt intake.
WHO urged food industry to work closely with national governments to incrementally reduce the level of salt in food products.
Strategies
The world health body’s strategies to reduce salt consumption include: ensuring food manufactures reduce the levels of salt in food and beverage products and make healthy food available and affordable; fostering healthy eating environment in public places, as well as ensuring clear food labeling so consumers can easily understand the level of salt in products.
For individuals and families, WHO recommended removing salt dispensers and bottled sauces from dining tables; limiting the amount of salt added in cooking and frequent consumption of high salt products, and guide children’s taste buds through a diet of mostly unprocessed foods without adding salt.
