KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 9 (Bernama) — A third of Malaysians suffer from hypertension caused by consumption of excess salt.
Health senior principal assistant director Dr Feisul Idzwan Mustapha said a study undertaken by the health ministry showed that Malaysians consumed 8.7 grammes of salt (about 1.5 teaspoons) daily.
This was 1.7 times higher than the five grams of salt a day recommended by the World Health Organisation, he said as a special guest on the 'Ala Carte Pagi' programme on Bernama Radio24 here today.
Dr Feisul said to prevent hypertension, the public should not consume more than five grammes or one teaspoonful of salt a day.
"If we do not control our salt intake, the incidence of hypertension would be more serious, possibly leading to death," he added.
Dr Feisul said salt was the main contributor of sodium in most foods popular among Malaysia as it enhanced flavour.
"For instance, people today prefer to eat out than cook, so they would go for a hot, fried dish with a high salt content.
"As their taste buds become used to salty food, they would even add soya sauce or salt to their plates," he noted.
Dr Feisul said the public should reduce salt intake by using more herbs and natural flavourings in their food.
"Eat foods with less salt and sauces when you eat outside the house," he advised.
He said the ministry would organise a World Salt Awareness Week from March 9 to 13 to create public awareness on the dangers of excessive salt intake.
A public seminar on salt intake will also be held on March 12 at the ministry's complex in Putrajaya. Entrance is free. (BERNAMA)
