The fact that the use of salt above the norm is dangerous is not a surprise. The habit of desalinating can lead to increase in blood pressure and cause a heart attack or stroke. But a new study by researchers at the University of Bonn says about the fact that salt directly affects the immune system of the human body. Namely, weakens it.
Experts have studied people who have agreed to participate in the study. In addition to their usual levels of salt were added 6 g of salt per day extra. This amount of salt is contained in 2 hamburgers or a couple of servings of French fries — like, nothing extraordinary. With the added salt menu people lived a week.
After a week it was observed that immune cells in their bodies are much worse to deal with alien bacteria. Scientists have noted signs of immunodeficiency we studied. But it leads to bacterial infections.
For Germany, this study was of great importance, as the people of this country traditionally consume salt in excess. Thus, according to the Robert Koch Institute, men in Germany, on average, consume 10 grams of salt a day and women – 8g of salt per day.
How much salt per day will not harm health?
The WHO recommends no more than 5 g of salt per day.
More about salt health benefits and harms read in our big article.