Salt (also knows as sodium chloride) is required by the body for maintaining its water balance.
We only need very small amounts of salt (6g per day or 2.5g sodium) but most people in the UK are consuming 9g per day. Eating too much salt can raise blood pressure and this can increase the risk of strokes and heart disease.
The majority of the salt we eat comes from processed foods such as tinned or packet soups, and ready meals, so always check the food label to find those with less salt. The salt we add to food when cooking or at the table and the salt naturally found in foods also adds to our intake.
By following our healthy eating plan, the amount of salt you are eating will automatically be reduced, however below are a few tips on how to cut down your salt intake even more.
Tips on how to cut down your salt intake