Salt Consumption in Türkiye is Far Above Recommendations
According to the Türkiye Household Health Survey 2025 data, the average daily salt intake is 9.9 grams. Among men, this reaches 11.3 g, while women consume 8.5 g. Yet, the World Health Organization recommends no more than 5 grams per day (<2000 mg sodium).
Approximately 20% of the population regularly adds salt to meals at the table, and one in four frequently consumes salty processed foods. Particularly among the younger age group (15–29 years), adding salt at the table is more common.
A Major Cause of Cardiovascular Diseases
Excessive salt consumption is the leading cause of hypertension and a critical risk factor for cardiovascular diseases. Too much salt raises blood pressure, damages vascular health, increases the heart’s workload, and can lead to serious conditions such as heart attack, stroke, and heart failure. It also accelerates calcium loss, raising the risk of osteoporosis.
Globally, high sodium intake causes approximately 1.89 million deaths each year. This demonstrates that reducing salt intake is vital not only for individual health but also for public health.
Less Salt, More Health
Avoid adding extra salt to your meals at the table.
Always choose iodized salt for daily use.
Flavor your meals with herbs and spices such as basil, mint, thyme, rosemary, coriander, and garlic powder.
Limit processed and packaged foods, and choose low-sodium options by checking labels.
Especially in older age, adopting a low-salt diet can make a major difference for health.
Conclusion
With more herbs and less salt, meals can become both tastier and healthier. Reducing salt intake is one of the most effective steps in preventing cardiovascular disease, hypertension, and osteoporosis. Remember: less salt means a stronger heart and a longer life.
