VietNamNet Bridge – The average amount of salt consumed in Vietnam ranges from 12-15 g per person per day, while the recommended level is less than 5 g or one teaspoon.
Excessive use of salt can lead to hypertension and increase the risk of stroke.
On September 29, World Heart Day, the World Health Organization (WHO) urged Vietnam to take action against the abuse of salt.
The major component of dietary salt is sodium. Sodium is also included in monosodium glutamate, which is used around the world.
Preliminary surveys show that many Vietnamese aged 26-64 consume more salt than the recommended 5 g per person recommended by WHO. Nearly 60% of the country’s population consumes twice the WHO recommended maximum limit.
These figures are similar to findings in other countries, such as China and Japan, where average salt consumption is about 10 g per day.
WHO warns that the main cause of death in Vietnam is heart disease, which accounts for 33% of total deaths. According to a national survey, the proportion of people 25 years and older with hypertension in VIetnam is 25%.
WHO’s Chief Representative in Vietnam, Jeffrey Kobza, said the reduction of salt is one of the most effective measures to improve human health, and decrease the risk of heart disease.
WHO is supporting Vietnam to implement an action plan to reduce the burden of NCDs, including nine goals.
Goal number four aims to reduce global salt consumption to around 30% by 2025. Therefore, the organization recommends Vietnam implement measures to reduce the amount of salt in order to reduce the morbidity and mortality rate due to disease, heart attacks and stroke. In addition, children aged 2-15 should eat less salt than the recommended level for adults.
WHO also encourages the government to implement strong measures such as developing policies to ensure that food manufacturers and retailers decrease the amount of salt in food and beverages.
Le Ha