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Simple salt substitute could prevent three million deaths a year worldwide, study estimates
A modelling study estimates that replacing regular table salt with a potassium-enriched alternative could prevent nearly three million deaths and more than 10 million new cases of heart and kidney disease worldwide each year. The findings suggest a simple change to salt could reduce health risks linked to high blood pressure, though the estimates come from simulations rather than a clinical trial.
Researchers at the George Institute for Global Health assessed dietary patterns and disease risks among 4.6 billion adults across 193 countries. Replacing salt used at home was projected to avert 1.85 million deaths annually, while the largest estimated national benefit was in China, at 1.08 million deaths. The substitute reduces sodium and adds potassium, but can cause dangerously high blood potassium in some people; the article notes that it may not be safe for everyone.
In short
- Salt alternatives could avert nearly three million deaths annually.
- Benefits depend on where people get most of their dietary salt.
- Potassium-enriched salt may pose risks for some people.
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The case for
Potassium-enriched salt could offer a practical way to lower sodium intake and blood pressure, potentially preventing substantial illness and premature death. Replacing salt used at home is a relatively simple change, and the model’s scale suggests it may merit careful consideration as a public-health measure.
The case against
The projected benefits come from modelling, not a clinical trial, so the number of deaths prevented in practice is uncertain. Adding potassium could also be dangerous for some people, particularly those at risk of high blood potassium, making broad use without safeguards a concern.
Explained simply
Ordinary table salt contains sodium, which can raise blood pressure when people consume too much. High blood pressure increases the risk of heart and kidney disease, while potassium can help balance some of sodium’s effects.
Potassium-enriched salt substitutes contain less sodium and add potassium. Researchers at the George Institute for Global Health modelled what might happen if adults in 193 countries used them instead of regular salt at home.
The estimates describe possible effects across whole populations; they do not come from a trial showing how many deaths would actually be prevented. Extra potassium can be unsafe for some people, so the substitute may not suit everyone.