Salt is the main source of sodium in our diet, according to the World Health Organization. This element is necessary to regulate many functions of our body; however, excessive consumption of it can cause serious health consequences, such as: increased blood pressure, heart disease and cardiovascular accidents. On this occasion, Dr. Víctor Geng, an internist at Clinica Ricardo Palma, give us more information on the subject.

How much salt is recommended to take?

Most people consume twice the maximum recommended salt intake per day, which is less than 5 grams per day, which is equivalent to a little less than a teaspoon. Most processed foods contain salt, as do foods naturally such as celery, beets, and milk. Therefore, care must be taken when seasoning food.

It is advisable to follow the following instructions to take care of our health:

• Avoid salt intake or limit it to a minimum.
• If salt is used, only a pinch is needed to flavor foods.
• Replace salt with spices and/or herbs to give a pleasant flavor to foods.
• Sporadic consumption of French fries, cheeses, sausages, soups and industrial creams, as they contain too much sodium.
• Read the labels of the products to be consumed so as not to fall into excesses.

Finally, our specialist reminds us that consuming less sodium will make our body work properly; a good diet depends on each one.

Dr. Víctor Geng
Internist at Clínica Ricardo Palma