We know that too much salt (sodium chloride) can increase the risk of high blood pressure, a major risk factor for heart disease and stroke; it is the sodium in salt that is linked to high blood pressure. Adults should keep our salt intake to a maximum of 6g (one teaspoon) per day. Dr Sarah Jarvis shares her top tips doing this:

  1. Cut down on processed foods, as this is where the majority of our salt comes from.
  2. Keep processed meats (e.g., bacon, ham and sausages) to a minimum.
  3. Flavour your cooking with herbs, spices and lemon juice. Weaning yourself off salt takes time, but your palate will adjust.

Reduced-sodium salt like LoSalt is a good option for those who want to reduce their sodium intake. High blood pressure is very common and often has no symptoms. It will be checked as part of your NHS health check which you are invited to every five years between the ages of 40-74; these screenings are the best way to detect early signs for high blood pressure, stroke, kidney disease, heart disease, type 2 diabetes and dementia.