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Knowledge, Attitudes and Behaviours Related to Dietary Salt Intake in High-Income Countries: a Systematic Review

  • Cardiovascular Disease (JHY Wu, Section Editor)
  • Published:
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Abstract

Purpose of Review

The purpose of this review was to examine the knowledge, attitudes and behaviours (KAB) related to dietary salt intake among adults in high-income countries.

Recent Findings

Overall (n = 24 studies across 12 countries), KAB related to dietary salt intake are low. While consumers are aware of the health implications of a high salt intake, fundamental knowledge regarding recommended dietary intake, primary food sources, and the relationship between salt and sodium is lacking. Salt added during cooking was more common than adding salt to food at the table. Many participants were confused by nutrition information panels, but food purchasing behaviours were positively influenced by front of package labelling.

Summary

Greater emphasis of individual KAB is required from future sodium reduction programmes with specific initiatives focusing on consumer education and awareness raising. By doing so, consumers will be adequately informed and empowered to make healthier food choices and reduce individual sodium intake.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Population Health, Tamaki Campus, University of Auckland, 261 Morrin Road, Auckland, 1072, New Zealand

    Neela Bhana, Jennifer Utter & Helen Eyles

  2. National Institute for Health Innovation, School of Population Health, Tamaki Campus, University of Auckland, 261 Morrin Road, Auckland, 1072, New Zealand

    Helen Eyles

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  1. Neela Bhana
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  2. Jennifer Utter
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Correspondence to Neela Bhana.

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Neela Bhana, Jennifer Utter, and Helen Eyles declare they have no conflict of interest.

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This article does not contain any studies with human or animal subjects performed by any of the authors.

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This article is part of the Topical Collection on Cardiovascular Disease

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Bhana, N., Utter, J. & Eyles, H. Knowledge, Attitudes and Behaviours Related to Dietary Salt Intake in High-Income Countries: a Systematic Review. Curr Nutr Rep 7, 183–197 (2018). https://doi.org/10.1007/s13668-018-0239-9

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