Over 85 percent of Dutch eat too much salt

Last Updated on Wednesday, 22 February 2012 13:27 Wednesday, 22 February 2012 13:26

Written by China Times

A large majority of the Dutch people use more salt than the recommended amount. The Center for Nutrition and Health sees it as an alarming figure.

The National Institute for Health and Environment conducted research on the salt intake of nearly 4000 adults and children. Over 85 percent is above 6 grams per day. Adult males eat about 10 grams of salt per day, and women take 7.5 grams on average.

Most of the salt is used for the hot meal, then the lunch. People who consume too much salt eat and drink more than average. In addition, they often opt for products with high salinity.

Main sources for salty food:

Bread

Meat products

Cheese

Sauce

Biscuits and cakes

Hans Verhagen, head of the Centre for Nutrition and Health, is concerned about the outcome of the investigation. “People who eat too much salt are at increased risk of heart disease and premature death.”

Improve public health

According to Verhagen, the salt consumption can be reduced by adapting the amount of the salt in food and eating habits. “A better composition of foods can help to improve public health,” said Verhagen.