WRHA > Wave > January / February 2010

Salt by the Numbers

Table salt consists of sodium chloride, which is 39 per cent sodium and 61 per cent chloride. According to the Canadian Stroke Network, it is the sodium that is dangerous to your health. One level teaspoon of salt contains 2,300 milligrams of sodium.

High blood pressure is one of the risk factors for cardiovascular disease and stroke, which are the No. 1 causes of hospitalization and death for Canadians. Research has shown that blood pressure rises with increased sodium (salt) intake.

Here are some statistics about sodium and the impact it can have on your health:

1,500	Recommended daily sodium intake in milligrams for people between 9 and 50 years of age.
2,300	Maximum daily adult sodium intake in milligrams compatible with good health.
3,400	Milligrams of sodium the average Canadian over the age of one consumes each day.
85	Percentage of Canadian men aged 19 to 70 consuming more than 2,300 milligrams of sodium a day.
60	Percentage of Canadian women aged 19 to 70 consuming more than 2,300 milligrams of sodium a day.
77	Percentage of Canadian children aged one to three consuming more than 2,300 milligrams of sodium per day.
93	Percentage of children aged four to eight consuming more than 2,300 milligrams of sodium per day.

Source: Statistics Canada

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Wave is published six times a year by the Winnipeg Regional Health Authority in cooperation with the Winnipeg Free Press. It is available at newsstands, hospitals and clinics throughout Winnipeg, as well as McNally Robinson Books.

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