Health Canada is concerned about the excessive use of salt by most Canadians. In a new report, the federal department states that Canadians consume on average 2760 mg per day, almost double the recommended amount of 1500 mg.
In Health Canada’s report , Sodium Intake for Canadians in 2017 , a diet high in salt can lead to a number of health problems, including high blood pressure, which is a risk factor for heart disease and stroke. ‘stroke.
One in four adults has high blood pressure in Canada.
The study found that 58% of Canadians and 72% of children aged 4 to 13 years had too high a sodium intake compared to the recommended amounts.
It is men who use salt more. According to Health Canada, more than 90% of men aged 14 to 30 have excessive sodium intake.
A decline since 2004
The report notes that Canadians have reduced their salt use since 2004, when their average consumption was 3400 mg per day.
The Department of Health explains this decline by changing the eating habits of Canadians.
This decline in salt intake has been particularly pronounced in recent years, while daily intake has decreased by 8% from 2010 to 2017, primarily due to reduced salt content in processed foods.
However, Health Canada believes that it is necessary to further reduce the amount of salt in foods packaged or served in restaurants.
In February, Health Canada took action to help Canadians use less salt in their diets.
A symbol should be displayed on the front of packages of foods containing large amounts of salt, sugar or saturated fat.
