Does reducing salt intake increase cardiovascular mortality?

Abstract

Overwhelming evidence shows that reducing salt intake from 9-12 to 5-6 g/d lowers blood pressure, thereby preventing cardiovascular disease. A recent paper claims that lower salt intake is associated with higher cardiovascular mortality despite lower blood pressure. The study is flawed and cannot refute the evidence for the benefits of salt reduction. The WHO recommends salt reduction as crucial in tackling the global non-communicable-disease crisis. A reduction in population salt intake remains a public-health priority.