Context

• The World Health Organization (WHO) has released new guidelines recommending the use of lower-sodium salt substitutes that contain potassium chloride (KCl) instead of regular table salt (sodium chloride, NaCl). 
• This is aimed at reducing sodium intake to less than 2 g/day, except for individuals with kidney impairments or conditions that affect potassium excretion.

Health Impact of Salt Consumption

• Sodium and water travel together in the body, and excess salt intake leads to water retention, increasing blood pressure. 
• This, in turn, raises the risk of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), strokes, and chronic kidney disease (CKD). 
• Reducing sodium intake significantly improves cardiovascular health and lowers the risk of gastric cancer and other noncommunicable diseases (NCDs).

Key Recommendations

• The WHO guidelines provide evidence-based recommendations on using lower-sodium salt substitutes, where sodium chloride (NaCl) is partially replaced with potassium chloride (KCl). These substitutes are recommended for household use but not for packaged foods or foods consumed outside the home.
• Policymakers and health professionals should advocate for population-wide sodium reduction strategies.
• Regular salt should still be available for those who require a low-potassium diet due to kidney disease.

https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/health/replace-regular-table-salt-with-lower-sodium-salt-substitutes-that-contain-potassium-who/article69151664.ece