Potassium-Enriched Salt: A Simple Solution for Lowering Blood Pressure

Australia faces a growing concern as high blood pressure affects one in three adults, increasing their risk of stroke and heart disease. Excessive salt consumption is a known contributor to hypertension, but efforts to reduce salt intake have yielded limited success. However, a solution in the form of potassium-enriched salt offers a simple yet effective means of combating high blood pressure.

The George Institute for Global Health conducted a comprehensive study involving 20,995 participants with a history of stroke or aged 60 and above with high blood pressure. The results demonstrated that switching to potassium-enriched salt significantly lowers blood pressure and reduces the risks of stroke, heart attacks, and premature death. This groundbreaking research highlights the immense potential of potassium-enriched salt in preventing cardiovascular events.

In light of these findings, a coalition consisting of experts from Australia, the United States, Japan, South Africa, and India is advocating for the inclusion of potassium-enriched salt in clinical management guidelines worldwide. However, a review of 32 existing hypertension treatment plans revealed that only two – from China and Europe – specifically recommend the use of potassium-enriched salt. This disparity raises concerns about incomplete and inconsistent guidelines among various countries.

The World Health Organisation‘s 2023 global report on hypertension has recognized potassium-enriched salt as an “affordable strategy” to reduce blood pressure and prevent cardiovascular events. To align these guidelines with the latest evidence, the coalition proposes clear and consistent advice on the use of potassium-enriched salt. Specific wording has been suggested, aiming to ensure individuals with hypertension are informed about this beneficial alternative.

While potassium-enriched salt provides a viable solution, its limited availability and higher cost compared to regular salt present challenges. Despite its potential to aid in disease prevention, the distribution of potassium-enriched salt remains scarce. Presently, it is marketed in only 47 countries, primarily those with higher incomes. Efforts must be made to make it more accessible and affordable, allowing the broader population to benefit from this intervention.

Concerns about high blood potassium levels (hyperkalemia) for individuals with serious kidney disease have been raised. However, studies conducted thus far have not recorded any adverse effects from potassium-enriched salt. It remains essential for healthcare providers to caution against its use in individuals at risk of hyperkalemia. Prevention strategies must prioritize getting individuals with hypertension to switch to potassium-enriched salt.

Potassium-enriched salt has been identified as a critical component in Australia’s efforts to improve blood pressure control rates through the National High Blood Pressure Control Initiative. Collaborating with the task force, the coalition aims to ensure the new guidelines are updated and promoted among healthcare professionals nationwide.

The switch from regular salt to iodized salt, achieved over the course of a century, exemplifies the potential for a widespread change in salt consumption. This simple intervention in the form of potassium-enriched salt has the power to save millions of lives each year. Swift action is necessary to make this transition a reality and reap the global health benefits it offers.