Source :NEWS18 NEWS
Last Updated:May 17, 2025, 15:07 IST
Hypertension is a major risk factor for heart disease, stroke, and kidney failure—conditions that are significantly worsened by excessive salt consumption.
Reducing even a small quantity of salt is a meaningful starting point for individuals with hypertension.
High blood pressure, or hypertension, affects 1 in 4 to 5 people worldwide. Shockingly, more than half of those with hypertension are unaware of their condition. Among those who are aware, a large percentage are not receiving adequate treatment. Hypertension is a major risk factor for heart disease, stroke, and kidney failure—conditions that are significantly worsened by excessive salt consumption.
Despite long-standing guidelines from the World Health Organization (WHO) recommending less than 5 grams of salt per day, global salt consumption remains alarmingly high—often double or even triple the recommended limit. For individuals already experiencing high blood pressure, this level of salt intake can be particularly dangerous.
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Dr. Dhiraj Bhattad, Consultant, Internal Medicine, Sir H.N. Reliance Foundation Hospital, shares crucial insights, “Salt, in the form of sodium, plays a key role in regulating blood pressure. In individuals with hypertension, excessive salt intake worsens the condition by overloading the kidneys. The kidneys regulate blood pressure by filtering out excess fluid and sodium. When sodium intake is too high, the kidneys cannot effectively eliminate it, causing the body to retain water. This increases blood volume and, consequently, blood pressure—placing strain on the heart and blood vessels.”
The implications of sustained high blood pressure are severe. It gradually damages the walls of the arteries, leading to atherosclerosis—a condition in which the arteries harden and narrow. This restricts blood flow and increases the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and heart failure. Additionally, the constant pressure can impair kidney function, potentially resulting in kidney failure. Individuals with hypertension who consume high amounts of salt are at significantly greater risk for both cardiovascular and renal complications.
Reducing salt consumption is one of the most effective strategies for lowering blood pressure and reducing the risk of cardiovascular events. Research consistently shows that population-wide reductions in salt intake lead to substantial drops in blood pressure and fewer cardiovascular incidents. In fact, such reductions could save millions of lives annually.
However, the widespread consumption of processed foods poses a major challenge, as these are typically high in sodium. Many people unknowingly consume excessive salt because processed foods make up a significant portion of their diets.
To counter the harmful effects of high sodium intake, several practical steps can be taken. One of the simplest is to carefully read food labels—processed and packaged foods often contain large amounts of hidden salt. Cooking meals at home provides better control over ingredients, making it easier to limit salt usage. Instead of relying on salt for flavor, individuals can experiment with herbs, spices, and lemon, which add zest without the health risks. Reducing the intake of processed foods—often high in sodium and unhealthy fats—is also crucial.
Beyond individual efforts, public health interventions are essential to address this global issue. Educational campaigns can raise awareness about the dangers of excessive salt intake and promote healthier lifestyles. Policy measures such as clearer food labeling and reformulation of products to lower sodium content are critical. Collaborative efforts between governments and the food industry are necessary to create a healthier food environment that supports long-term public health.
- First Published:
May 17, 2025, 15:07 IST
SOURCE : NEWS 18
