A word about salt

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

• Check food labels, and choose those with less salt added.
• Cut down on salty snacks such as crisps/nuts and heavily salted foods such as bacon, cheese and other processed foods.
• Taste your food before you add salt, you may not need it.
• Avoid adding salt during cooking, use herbs and spices to flavour your food.
• If you need to add salt during cooking, do not add it again at the table.

How do I start?

Understanding food labels