Is Salt Bad for You? What the Research Really Says
If you’ve ever wondered “Is salt bad for you?”, you’re not the only one. With thousands searching this question each month, salt remains one of the most hotly debated topics in nutrition. From concerns about high blood pressure to differing global standards on sodium levels in drinking water, the conversation around why salt is bad for you is far from simple.
Why Is Salt Considered Bad for You?
Many health experts link too much salt in the diet to high blood pressure (hypertension), which may increase the risk of heart disease and stroke. Studies show that reducing salt intake can help lower blood pressure, particularly in older adults with hypertension.
But does that mean salt is always bad? Not necessarily.
Is Too Much Salt Bad for You – or Just Certain People?
The real concern is excessive sodium consumption. The UK Department of Health recommends reducing daily adult salt intake from around 9,500 mg to 6,200 mg. This aligns with their strategy to cut the nation’s risk of cardiovascular issues and promote overall health.
One key measure includes setting a sodium limit of 200 mg/l in UK drinking water regulations. This is especially aimed at protecting:
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Infants (to prevent hypernatraemia – dangerously high sodium levels in the blood)
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People on low-sodium diets, including those with heart or kidney conditions
However, not all countries follow the same approach.
Global Differences: Is Salt That Bad for You Everywhere?
In most European Union countries, sodium is treated as an “indicator parameter,” not a strict safety standard. If sodium levels exceed recommendations, local authorities assess whether it’s a health risk before taking action.
In the United States, there is no official limit on sodium in the primary drinking water standards. Meanwhile, the World Health Organisation (WHO) does not set a health-based guideline for sodium. The WHO only notes that concentrations over 200 mg/l may affect taste, not necessarily health.
Interestingly, some bottled waters are sold with sodium levels of over 1,700 mg/l and are even marketed for their health benefits.
So, How Bad Is Salt for You?
Ultimately, salt isn’t inherently bad, it’s essential for our bodies. The key issue is how much you consume and whether you have specific health conditions. If you’re healthy and active, a moderate amount of salt is unlikely to harm you.
However, if you:
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Have high blood pressure
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Are on a low-sodium medical diet
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Are preparing baby formula
…then reducing sodium might be necessary, also from sources like softened water.
Final Thoughts
If you’re concerned about salt intake from water softeners, rest assured: Harvey Water Softeners comply with UK standards. We also provide separate unsoftened drinking water taps, perfect for baby feeds or low-sodium diets.
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