Cutting down on salt intake might not sound thrilling, but the rewards could be significant, as substantial as a decreased risk of premature death, according to a new study.
The study published in the Annals of Internal Medicine found that using a salt substitute in cooking was associated with a reduced risk of early mortality from any cause or from cardiovascular disease.
Using a salt substitute in cooking was associated with a reduced risk of early mortality from any cause or from cardiovascular disease.
Albarqouni suggested that this could explain the observed decrease in mortality risk.
While further research is needed to confirm the benefits of salt substitutes in Indian context, this study underscores the potential health advantages of reducing salt intake and exploring alternative seasoning options.
Cutting down on salt intake might not sound thrilling, but the rewards could be significant, as substantial as a decreased risk of premature death, according to a new study.
The study published in the Annals of Internal Medicine found that using a salt substitute in cooking was associated with a reduced risk of early mortality from any cause or from cardiovascular disease.
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The trials compared the use of common salt, made of about 100% sodium chloride, occasionally with added iodine, with using a salt substitute comprised of 25% to 30% potassium chloride and 60% to 75% sodium chloride.
Dr Loai Albarqouni, senior author of the study and assistant professor at the Institute for Evidence-Based Healthcare at Bond University in Australia, highlighted the long-term effectiveness of salt substitutions in improving heart health.
This systematic review analysed 16 randomised controlled trials involving 35,251 participants, with an average age of 64 and a higher-than-average risk for heart disease.
While most trials were conducted in China, others took place in the United Kingdom, Taiwan, Peru, the Netherlands, and Norway. Using a salt substitute in cooking was associated with a reduced risk of early mortality from any cause or from cardiovascular disease. (Photo: Getty Images)
The study revealed a connection between salt substitution and a decrease in sodium levels in urine, as well as a reduction in blood pressure, an effect comparable to that of blood pressure medications.
Albarqouni suggested that this could explain the observed decrease in mortality risk.
However, the authors noted limitations, including variations in salt substitutes which are quite different across countries.
The American Heart Association recommends limiting daily sodium intake to 1,500 milligrams for most adults, especially those with high blood pressure, and no more than 2,300 milligrams per day.
While further research is needed to confirm the benefits of salt substitutes in Indian context, this study underscores the potential health advantages of reducing salt intake and exploring alternative seasoning options.
Published By: Daphne Clarance Published On: Apr 9, 2024
