SAEDNEWS: Today, scientists and doctors have concluded that excessive salt consumption in children can lead to high blood pressure, osteoporosis, respiratory issues such as asthma, stomach cancer, and obesity. Keep reading as we explore the impact of salt intake on children in more detail.
According to the Saed News Family Service report, children should not be accustomed to consuming too much salt. Food should only contain enough salt to make it palatable, not overly salty. Additionally, adding salt at the table should be avoided.
Excessive consumption of salty foods can have long-term effects. High sodium intake in daily diets can put a child’s health at risk. Because it can sometimes be difficult to identify excessive intake, look for the following signs:
Sodium retains water in the body. Therefore, higher sodium levels mean the body needs more water. If your child is unusually thirsty without obvious reasons such as hot weather or physical activity, they are likely consuming too much salt and their diet should be adjusted.
Children naturally prefer salty foods over sweet or naturally flavored foods like fruit juices. If your child constantly wants salty foods, try introducing herbs and spices instead, such as parsley or pepper on scrambled eggs rather than salt.
About 7% of children aged 3 to 18 have high blood pressure. Like adults, children’s high blood pressure is often “silent,” meaning they may show no symptoms, and parents may not notice anything unusual. Over time, high blood pressure can increase blood vessel thickness.
While several factors can darken a child’s urine, one possible cause is excessive sodium intake.
Parents often associate weight gain with sweets and fat, but studies show that high salt intake can also contribute to weight gain.
During the first two years of life, kidneys are not fully developed. Excess salt can lead to water and sodium accumulation, increasing the risk of kidney, heart, and lung problems. High salt intake at a young age also raises the likelihood of high blood pressure later. Children with a family history of hypertension are at even higher risk.
Additionally, early exposure to salt can condition taste preferences toward salty foods, making children more likely to consume high-salt diets as adults. For a healthier family diet, avoid placing salt on the table to prevent this habit.
Use herbs, spices, and garlic instead of salt. Introduce these ingredients to your child separately at first and wait at least four days to check for allergies.
Check labels on canned vegetables to ensure no salt has been added.
Toddlers can tolerate slightly more salt than infants, but always monitor product labels.
Offer low-sodium cheeses and check bread labels, as some breads contain surprisingly high salt.
Avoid processed meats like burgers, pepperoni, and ready-made sauces, as they contain excessive salt for children.
6–12 months: less than 1 g per day
1–3 years: less than 2 g per day
4–6 years: less than 3 g per day
7 years: less than 5 g per day
11 years and older: less than 6 g per day
At this age, children eat the same family meals, so it is important that the whole family’s food is low in salt.
Use minimal store-bought sauces; make your own using vinegar, lemon, and spices.
Involve children in cooking to encourage healthy habits.
Pay attention to labels when buying canned tuna, ready-made stews, or other processed foods.
Avoid chips, puffs, and other harmful snacks.
Limit carbonated and sugary drinks, which often contain high sodium.
Excess salt can constrict blood vessels, increase thirst, and make children drink more fluids than necessary, potentially straining their system.
