Originally published October 7 2005
British council recommends cutting your daily dose of salt to six grams
by Mike Adams, the Health Ranger, NaturalNews Editor
Britain's Medical Research Council (MRC) says reducing your daily consumption of salt from the average 9.5 to 6 grams a day could result in a 10 percent decrease in heart disease.
People should cut their daily salt intake to 6 grams a day -- one heaped teaspoon -- to reduce their blood pressure levels and the risk of heart disease and stroke, health experts said on Monday.
A new report by Britain's Medical Research Council (MRC), which summarizes scientific evidence on the links between salt and health, said cutting salt consumption from the average 9.5 to 6 grams a day could result in a 13 percent reduction in stroke and a 10 percent decrease in heart disease.
"It was felt to be a level that brings significant health benefits," Dr Susan Jebb, head of nutrition and health research at the MRC, told a news conference.
Jebb said the European Union and other countries are looking at the British model to set their priorities.
People need sodium because it regulates water in the body and acts as a message coordinating system by carrying electrical charges.
Salt increases blood pressure because the sodium makes the body retain more water and the extra water in the blood vessels creates more pressure.
Paul Lincoln, the chief executive of the National Heart Forum, told journalists that salt is a major, modifiable risk factor for high blood pressure.
"We eat more crisp (potato chips) than the rest of Europe combined," Lincoln said.
Processed meats, cheese, cereals, bread and prepared meals are also high in salt.
The MRC report is urging the food industry to reduce the salt content in their products.
It also wants consumers to cut down on how much salt they use in cooking and on foods.
People should read labels so they can choose foods with the lowest amount of salt.
"We need consumers to recognize the importance of cutting salt intake," said Jebb.
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