Costa Ricans’ high salt intake is a headache for authorities.
For the World Health Organization (WHO) the maximum amount of salt to be consumed daily is 5 milligrams, that is, a teaspoon. However, every Costa Rican consumes, almost twice as much, on average.
Sodium, which comes from salt and other chemicals added to food, is a micronutrient essential for the proper functioning of the body, but excessive intake can lead to high blood pressure, the main risk factor for heart disease.
It is also associated with damages in the kidneys, in the respiratory system; osteoporosis; fluid retention, some types of tumors, overweight and obesity.
From March 20th to 26th, the World Salt Sensitization Week is celebrated to raise awareness about the consequences of excessive consumption.