The Salt Swap

Discover how a simple switch from sodium to potassium-enriched salt can have a profound impact on global health, blood pressure, and longevity.

1.4 Billion
Adults Worldwide Affected by Hypertension

High blood pressure, driven by excess sodium, is the leading risk factor for cardiovascular disease and mortality.

>2x
The Average Global Sodium Intake vs. WHO Guideline

Most people consume far more sodium and far less potassium than recommended, creating a dangerous dietary imbalance.

The Cellular Tug-of-War

Your health depends on a delicate balance. Sodium and potassium play opposing roles in regulating your body's fluid and blood pressure.

🧂

High Sodium

Retains fluid, increasing blood volume and raising blood pressure.

🍌

High Potassium

Helps excrete sodium and relaxes blood vessels, lowering blood pressure.

Potassium-enriched salt works by reducing sodium intake while simultaneously increasing potassium intake, directly addressing this imbalance without changing taste or habits.

The Clinical Proof: A Healthier Heart

Significant Blood Pressure Reduction

A meta-analysis of 21 trials showed that using potassium-enriched salt consistently lowers both systolic and diastolic blood pressure.

Lower Incidence of Hypertension

The DECIDE-Salt trial found a dramatic preventative effect in older adults over two years.

40%
Lower Likelihood of Developing Hypertension

Reduced Risk of Major Cardiovascular Events & Mortality

The landmark SSaSS trial, involving over 20,000 adults, demonstrated life-saving benefits over nearly 5 years.

Major Cardiovascular Events

All-Cause Mortality

Cardiovascular Mortality

⚠️ Critical Safety Warning

Potassium-enriched salt is NOT for everyone. For some, it can lead to dangerously high potassium levels (hyperkalemia). Consult your doctor before making the switch.

Should You Use a Salt Substitute? Follow This Guide.

Do you have advanced kidney disease or renal failure?

YES → DO NOT USE
NO ↓

Are you taking any of these medications?

  • ACE Inhibitors or ARBs
  • Potassium-Sparing Diuretics
  • NSAIDs (e.g., Ibuprofen)
YES → AVOID / USE WITH EXTREME CAUTION
NO ↓

Do you have heart failure or diabetes?

YES → USE WITH CAUTION & MEDICAL SUPERVISION
NO ↓

Likely Safe, but always best to consult your healthcare provider first.

Why Isn't Everyone Using It?

Despite the powerful evidence, global adoption of this simple, life-saving swap remains low due to several key barriers.

Further Information & Resources

A Comprehensive Review of Potassium-Enriched Salt Substitutes

Read the detailed review of the health implications and clinical evidence.

Podcast Episode: Salt Substitutes - The Life Saving Swap

Listen to the podcast episode for a deeper dive into the topic.

Download Podcast