Salt and health

Salt contains two nutrients without which the body could not function properly: sodium and chloride.

Salt is the main source of sodium in our diet. It helps to distribute water evenly throughout the body, regulate blood pressure and blood volume, and contributes to the proper functioning of the muscles and heart, as well as the transmission of nerve impulses.

Chloride, meanwhile, is essential for digestion and respiration.

The National Nutrition and Health Programme recommends a daily intake of 8g for adult men and 6.5g for adult women and children.

The WHO (World Health Organisation) recommends a maximum daily salt intake of 5g.

Salt is therefore an essential element for our bodies, provided it is not consumed in excess.