Globally, daily salt consumption is on average about twice the amount recommended by WHO10.78 grams per day was estimated in 2019. In Italy it is decreasing but still well over the threshold of 5 grams per day. In the period 2018-2019, through the collection of 24-hour urine in samples of the population aged 35-74 residing in 10 Regions, an average daily consumption of salt equal to 9.5 grams in men and 7.2 grams in women, resulting in less than 5 grams per day in only 9% of men and 23% of women.
These values are an improvement compared to those found in the period 2008-2012 (10.8 g in men and 8.3 g in women, with a consumption of less than 5 grams per day in 4% of men and 15% of women ), although they still remain well above that recommended by WHO. This can be read on the minister’s website on the occasion of the world awareness week for the reduction of dietary salt consumption.
The week is promoted by the World Action on Salt, Sugar and Health (Wassh), an Association with partners in 100 countries on different continents established in 2005. The main objective of Wassh is to make governments aware of the need for a broad multi-sector population strategy on the subject , as well as to encourage food companies to reduce the salt in their products, considering that about three quarters of the salt consumed is already present in processed and packaged foods and in many countries, it reaches 80%. In fact, excessive salt consumption favors an increase in blood pressure, with a consequent increase in the risk of the onset of serious cardio-cerebrovascular diseases related to arterial hypertension, such as myocardial infarction and cerebral stroke, and has been associated with other chronic diseases -degenerative, such as tumours, especially of the stomach, osteoporosis and kidney disease.
There are 5 concrete actions, also recommended by Wassh, to reduce salt consumption to less than 5 g per day: – Use herbs, spices, garlic, chillies, aromatic herbs and citrus fruits instead of salt to add flavor to your food – Drain and rinse canned vegetables and legumes and eat more fresh fruits and vegetables – Check labels before buying to choose less salty food items – Gradually reduce salt in favorite recipes – allowing the taste buds to adapt – Do not put salt on the table and savory sauces, so that even the youngest of the family get used to not adding salt.
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