The Shakedown on Salt!

The sodium component of salt is vital for controlling the amount of water in the body, maintaining the normal pH of blood, transmitting nerve signals and helping muscular contraction. Salt is present in all foods in varying degrees, and almost all processed foods contain added salt.

Sodium, unlike all other minerals, is generally over consumed, with the dietary intake of salt in Canada being far in excess of the recommended daily requirement. Adults are advised to consume no more than 6g salt per day (about one teaspoon). Babies and children should have less salt than adults.

People who have experienced heart problems or have high blood pressure should follow a low-salt diet and take advice from their health care professional. Reducing sodium has been proven to be one of the best ways of lowering high blood pressure, especially in combination with broader dietary changes.