Better Health Channel
betterhealth.vic.gov.au Department of Health
betterhealth.vic.gov.au Department of Health
  • Salt is a chemical compound (electrolyte) made up of sodium and chloride. It is commonly used to preserve and flavour foods and is the main source of sodium in our diet.
  • Sodium is needed by the body to help regulate fluid levels, but there is generally more than enough dietary sodium in a natural diet without any added salt. 
  • The average Australian eats almost double the sodium (salt) that is required for good health. 
  • A diet high in sodium has been linked to high blood pressure and other health conditions. 
  • Around 75% of the salt in our diet comes from processed foods, which means we may be unaware of the amount of salt we are having. 
  • Our taste buds can adapt to lower salt levels in a matter of weeks. 

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Reviewed on: 27-08-2024