All posts tagged: hypertension prevention

AIIMS, public health experts back low-sodium salt use, drop table salt to tackle India’s hypertension crisis | Health and Wellness News

AIIMS, public health experts back low-sodium salt use, drop table salt to tackle India’s hypertension crisis | Health and Wellness News

For many Indian households, salt is a daily essential, added to everything from dal to sabzi without much thought. Current estimates show that Indians consume between 8 to 11 grams of salt (equivalent to 3.2–4.4 grams of sodium) per day, nearly double the WHO’s recommended limit of 5 grams (2 grams of sodium). Excess salt intake is a major contributor to hypertension, which in turn raises the risk of cardiovascular disease, one of the leading causes of death in India. Now, a group of leading experts in clinical medicine, public health, and nutrition is highlighting a simple but powerful solution: switching to potassium-enriched low-sodium salt substitutes. These salts contain less sodium and more potassium, helping to lower blood pressure without requiring major changes in eating habits. Why potassium? High sodium intake is a key driver of elevated blood pressure, while potassium plays a complementary role by helping counteract sodium’s effects—yet potassium intake in India remains below optimal levels. With nearly 80% of sodium intake in India coming from salt added during cooking at homes, experts …

Limiting Sugar Intake in Early Childhood Reduces Risk of Diabetes and Hypertension, Claims New Study

Limiting Sugar Intake in Early Childhood Reduces Risk of Diabetes and Hypertension, Claims New Study

A study has revealed that controlling sugar intake in infancy can significantly reduce the risk of chronic illnesses, such as diabetes and high blood pressure, later in life. Researchers analysing historical data from World War II’s sugar rationing in the United Kingdom found that limited sugar consumption in childhood led to healthier adult outcomes, emphasising the importance of diet in the early stages of life. Economist Dr Tadeja Gracner from the University of Southern California led the research, published in Science.org. As per the report, the team explored the long-term effects of rationed sugar intake by reviewing health records of over 60,000 UK Biobank participants born from 1951 to 1956. The team then reportedly divided the participants into two groups, one experienced sugar rationing in early childhood, while the other grew up after the restrictions were lifted in 1953. Findings showed that those who had limited sugar intake as children were less likely to develop type 2 diabetes or hypertension later in life. The risk of diabetes was reduced by 38 percent, while hypertension risk …