ملح الطعام (Table Salt)

Table Salt

(Public Health)

This page will answer your questions about table salt.

What is Table Salt?

Table salt is a chemical compound made of sodium and chloride.

• It is used as a food seasoning and preservative.
• The body needs sodium in small amounts, and table salt is the main source of it.
• However, excessive intake of table salt can cause health problems.
• Where is Table Salt Found?
• Salt is added to many foods without being visible, and people often eat it without realizing how much salt they are consuming.

Examples of foods high in salt include:

Processed meats: such as sausages, mortadella

Dried and canned foods: such as instant noodles, pasta and pickles

Sauces: such as tomato paste, soy sauce

• Snacks: such as potato chips, corn chips
• Fast foods: such as pizza, burgers and French fries

Recommended Daily Amount:

Do not exceed 5 grams of salt per day (equivalent to less than 2 grams of sodium per day).

• Keeping salt intake below this amount helps prevent high blood pressure and reduces the risk of heart disease and stroke in adults.
• Health Risks of Excess Salt Intake:
• High blood pressure increases the risk of heart disease, kidney disease, and stroke.
• Osteoporosis.
• Healthy Alternatives to Salt:
• To reduce salt in your diet, use flavorful natural alternatives, such as:

Fresh or dried herbs (parsley, basil, thyme).

Garlic.

Chili pepper.