Are salt substitutes good for you?
- Saneka Chakravarty, MD, FACC
- Sep 7, 2021
- 2 min read
Updated: Jun 5
Study Overview
In a recent enlightening study conducted in China, a cohort of 20,995 individuals aged 60 and above, all of whom had a history of stroke and high blood pressure, yielded promising findings. Those who embraced salt substitutes experienced a noteworthy decrease in the occurrences of stroke, heart attacks, and mortality when juxtaposed with their counterparts who adhered to traditional table salt.
Understanding Salt Substitutes
Curious about these salt substitutes? Traditional table salt, sodium chloride, has a remarkable counterpart in the form of these substitutes, which marry sodium chloride with potassium chloride. Within the context of this study, the composition of the substitute consisted of 75% sodium chloride and 25% potassium chloride. As we traverse to the United States, a selection of the closest salt substitutes, boasting a sodium chloride content of 66%, are readily accessible.
Available Salt Substitutes
Safety Considerations
But what about safety, you ask? The primary concern centers around the potential elevation of potassium levels. However, drawing insights from the comprehensive study encompassing nearly 21,000 participants, there emerged no significant adverse reactions to fret over.
Recommendations for Individuals with Kidney Disease
While navigating the realm of salt substitutes, it's imperative to exercise caution, especially if you grapple with kidney disease—a condition that encompasses chronic kidney disease or diminished kidney function. In such instances, it's advisable to stay attuned to your well-being by scheduling periodic blood work and consulting your trusted physician, thereby ensuring a harmonious journey towards healthier choices.
FAQs
What are salt substitutes?
Salt substitutes are alternatives to traditional table salt that often contain a mixture of sodium chloride and potassium chloride.
Are salt substitutes safe for everyone?
While generally safe for most individuals, those with kidney disease should consult a physician before using salt substitutes due to potential potassium level concerns.
What were the findings of the study in China?
The study found that individuals using salt substitutes experienced fewer strokes, heart attacks, and lower mortality rates compared to those using traditional table salt.
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