The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) said that it aims to cut sodium levels in packaged and processed foods by about 20%. Earlier, in October 2021, the FDA had set guidelines to trim sodium levels in foods ranging from potato chips to hamburgers in a bid to prevent excessive intake of salt that can trigger high blood pressure, a major risk factor for heart disease and stroke.

The FDA is now seeking voluntary curbs from packaged-food makers such as PepsiCo, Kraft Heinz and Campbell Soup. The FDA wants to cut sodium intake over the next three years to an average of 2,750 milligrams per day — 20% lower than the levels prior to 2021, though above the recommended daily limit of 2,300 mg.

FDA Deputy Commissioner for Human Foods Jim Jones in a statement said, “Reducing sodium in the food supply has the potential to be one of the most important public health initiatives in a generation.” The agency said it had seen 40% of food categories achieving the first-phase sodium targets, to cut levels by an average of about 12%, or were within 10% of meeting those targets.

High salt intake causes water retention, thereby, increasing blood volume and consequently, blood pressure. Over time, increased blood pressure can add pressure on the cardiovascular system, thereby, increasing the risk of heart disease and stroke.

The kidneys filter excess sodium from the blood. A high-salt diet forces them to work harder, thereby, impairing function. Over time, this can result in kidney disease or worsen existing conditions.

Sodium causes the body to retain water, leading to swelling in the legs, hands and other parts of the body. This condition is also known as oedema and can be uncomfortable. It might also indicate underlying heart or kidney issues.

Excessive sodium can cause the body to lose calcium through urine. This depletes calcium stores in the bones, thereby increasing the risk of osteoporosis. This is a condition where bones become brittle and more susceptible to fractures.

High salt intake can also increase the risk of stomach cancer. Sodium can damage the stomach lining and increase the production of a compound called nitrosamine which is known to be carcinogenic.

Excess sodium can damage the lining of blood vessels, thereby, affecting their ability to dilate and contract. This damage leads to the development of atherosclerosis wherein arteries become narrowed and hardened.

A high-salt diet can affect the balance of gut bacteria, thereby, promoting the growth of harmful bacteria while reducing the good ones. This imbalance can lead to inflammation and increase the risk of chronic diseases.

High salt levels in the body increases thirst as the body tries to dilute the excess sodium. This can lead to dehydration if you don’t drink enough water as the kidneys work overtime to remove the excess salt.

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