A pinch too much!

The average Indian consumes twice the amount of salt they should - the damage remains invisible until it's too late

- SREYA DEB

A RECENT REPORT published by the Council on Energy, Environment and Water (CEEW), a leading not for profit policy research institution, revealed that the average Indian's daily consumption of salt stands at over twice the amount recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO) - 11 gm as against 5 gm that is considered a safe limit.

This excessive salt consumption is fuelling a silent epidemic in India with people at increased risk of hypertension, stroke, heart disease, and kidney disorders. What is more worrisome, the damage remains invisible until it's too late.

As per Dr Suhani Seth Agarwal, head of department, dietetics, Yatharth Super Specialty Hospital, Noida Extension, this is a significant issue that has "subtly impacted our day to day existence". "Indian cuisine is heavily influenced by salt, which enhances flavor, comfort, and familiarity. But somewhere along the line, 'just enough' became 'a little extra," she says.

The real concern is that too much salt does not show symptoms right away. "People have a false sense of security because they feel good for years. The damage is frequently already done by the time health problems appear," she adds.

Most of the excess salt does not just come from cooked food but also from pickles, papads and chutneys, packaged or restaurant foods, says Dr Anjana B Nair, nutrition and dietician, Motherhood Hospital, Chennai. "Reducing salt does not mean losing taste. Using spices, herbs and gradual reduction can help keep food healthy and flavorful," she adds.

Speaking of the damage caused by continued use of excessive salt content in the diet, Dr Agarwal shares, "The body is gradually but persistently impacted by too much salt. Over time, it raises blood pressure, puts stress on the kidneys, and makes the heart work harder."