GS3 SCIENCE & TECH:
About K-Salts
- K-salts are potassium-based alternatives to regular table salt, replacing sodium chloride with potassium chloride.
- This switch reduces sodium intake while increasing potassium, which is crucial for heart health and helps lower blood pressure.
WHO Guidelines on Sodium and Potassium Intake
- WHO recommends reducing sodium intake to less than 2 grams per day, roughly 5 grams of salt.
- Partial replacement of table salt with K-salts is encouraged.
- However, the guidelines exclude certain groups, such as women, children, and individuals with kidney issues, due to insufficient data.
Evidence Supporting K-Salt Usage
- A review of 26 randomized control trials with nearly 35,000 participants showed:
- A reduction in systolic blood pressure by 4.76 mmHg and diastolic by 2.43 mmHg.
- A 10% reduction in non-fatal strokes and a 23% decrease in cardiovascular deaths.
- Despite positive results, WHO didn’t fully endorse K-salts due to remaining high sodium intake in some participants, suggesting potassium alone might not suffice for blood pressure control.
Importance of the Guidelines for India
- India has a high burden of hypertension, with 35.5% of the population affected.
- Cardiovascular diseases are a significant cause of death, making WHO’s guidelines crucial in addressing this health crisis.
Challenges in Implementing K-Salt Recommendations
- Consumer taste preferences for high-sodium foods complicate the adoption of K-salts.
- Sodium’s role in enhancing shelf life and moisture retention in packaged foods makes its reduction difficult in the food industry.