The common condiment that many Aussies insist is healthy – but it's not
A survey of more than 1000 Australian adults found that 40 per cent believe it's fine to use salt to flavour foods while a further 29 per cent were unsure. Males and people aged 45-plus are less likely to be aware of the risk. And the Heart Foundation is concerned.
In World Salt Awareness Week, Heart Foundation dietitian Sian Armstrong said it was surprising and concerning that so many people believed salt was okay and warned that regularly consuming too much salt could lead to high blood pressure.
"High blood pressure is known as a silent killer because there are no obvious signs or symptoms that you have it, but it can put you at higher risk of a heart attack or stroke," Ms Armstrong said. "As people get older, it can increase over time.
"The good news is high blood pressure can be controlled by following a heart-healthy eating pattern that is naturally low in salt, added sugars, saturated and trans fat, together with other lifestyle changes and, if advised by your doctor, taking medication."
She said the best way to manage salt intake was to cook fresh, heart-healthy meals with a colourful mix of vegetables, fruits and healthy whole grains and cut back on foods with hidden salt such chips, muffins and cakes.
"You don't need to add salt to pack a flavour punch in healthy meals," she said. "Our tastebuds do adjust over time to less salt in foods. And creating your own pasta sauces or salad dressings rather than using store-bought versions packed with salt is not only satisfying but also helps to reduce your salt intake."
Find out your risk of heart attack or stroke by using the Heart Foundation's Heart Age Calculator.
Are you conscious of the effects of including too much salt in your diet?
Yes. I don't add it to very much at all.