WHO targets for sodium and potassium intake ‘unrealistic’: study
Boosting potassium levels and consuming a moderate amount of salt is best, say researchers
The World Health Organisation’s daily targets for sodium and potassium intake are ‘unrealistic’, according to the authors of a large international study.
Instead, they say a recommendation to boost potassium intake while maintaining sodium intake at ‘moderate’ levels would be better for health.
The Canadian-led study of more than 103,000 people in high-, middle- and low-income countries shows just one person in 50,000 (0.002%) is meeting the WHO targets for sodium of less than 2 g/ day and potassium intake of more than 3.5 g/ day.
The Australian Heart Foundation also recommends less than 2g per day of sodium.
