Higher sodium intake is associated with higher risk of stroke and fatal coronary heart disease according to new research discoveries by medical scientists.

To reduce blood pressure and risk of cardiovascular disease, stroke and coronary heart disease in adults, the World Health Organisation (WHO) recommends a reduction in salt intake (sodium intake).

The president of the Uganda Dietetic Association, Fredrick Kizito says that a table spoon of salt, baking soda and baking powder may contribute up to 40% sodium which when taken in high measures increases the risk of non-communicable diseases.

He says that eating foods with less sodium and increasing potassium rich foods will strengthen the immunity and reduce the risk of getting high blood pressure, heart diseases and stroke.

For people who are already hypertensive, he says it’s advisable to increase their dietary intake of potassium because the mineral has a direct impact on reducing high blood pressure.

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