Health experts believe that most Americans should consume less salt but are not sure how to determine how much is too much, according to a report from the Institute of Medicine (IOM).
"Studies have looked at efforts to lower excessive salt intake, but raised questions about harm from too little salt," explained IOM committee chair Dr. Brian Strom, at the University of Pennsylvania.
Currently, the amount recommended in U.S. Dietary Guidelines (ages 14-50) is a daily intake of 2,300 milligrams, while for those over 51 the limit is 1,500 mg per day.
Yet, according to IOM, the average American consumes 3,400 mg or more of salt per day. Much of that salt is in the food we eat, while only a small portion comes from the salt shaker.
Docs recommend eating more unprocessed foods at home where flavor may be added with non-salt substitutes like lemon, vinegars, herbs, spices, jalapenos, garlic and onions.
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June 05, 2026 16:18 ET A busy week for economic news flow saw a slew of reports being released that reflected the trends in the U.S. labor market. In Europe, economic growth and inflation data gained attention as the European Central Bank and Bank of England head for policy session later in the month. In Asia, the monetary policy session of the Indian central bank was in focus as the country, a major oil importer, reels under the pressures of a weaker rupee and rising inflation.