Senior dietician at the University of Ghana Medical Centre, Amos Agyei Gyamfi, is advocating for moderation in salt consumption. He recommends no more than one teaspoon of salt per day to reduce the risk of hypertension.
Speaking on the importance of dietary management in controlling blood pressure, Mr. Gyamfi emphasized that excessive salt intake is a significant contributor to the development of hypertension.
Mr. Gyamfi explained that high salt consumption leads to increased blood pressure, which in turn raises the risk of cardiovascular diseases such as stroke and kidney failure.
“For your cardio-protective health, a meal good in grains and less salt is essential. In Ghana, someone’s pinch of salt might be more than five grams. Technically, on a daily basis, it’s recommended that you have about a teaspoon of salt for the whole day, and it’s also advisable to put salt on the table. We shouldn’t have an excess of oils,” he indicated.
The dietician’s advice aligns with global health guidelines, which also suggest limiting salt intake to minimize the risk of hypertension and associated health complications.
In addition to reducing salt intake, Mr. Agyei Gyamfi recommended a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins, combined with regular physical activity, to maintain optimal blood pressure and overall health.