Why in News
A study by The George Institute for Global Health found that following WHO guidelines for sodium in packaged foods in India could prevent 300,000 deaths and 2.4 million cases of heart disease and other illnesses in the next 10 years.
Current sodium intake in India exceeds recommendations, highlighting urgent health risks.
Study Findings
Implementing the sodium guidelines could reduce heart disease and kidney disease significantly, saving nearly $800 million in healthcare costs.
The average daily salt intake in India is 8.0 grams, exceeding the recommended limit of 5 grams.
Excessive sodium intake is linked to high blood pressure and various health issues, causing approximately 1.89 million deaths annually worldwide.
NHow can you reduce your sodium intake?
Eat mostly fresh, minimally processed foods
Choose low-sodium products (less than 120mg/100g sodium)
Cook with little or no added sodium/salt
Use herbs and spices to flavour food, rather than salt
Limit the use of commercial sauces, dressings and instant products
Limit the consumption of processed foods
Remove the saltshaker/container from the table.
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