Elevated sodium intake has been associated with a number diseases (including hypertension, cardiovascular disease and stroke), and decreasing sodium intake may reduce blood pressure and the risk of these diseases. The objective of this guideline is to provide recommendations on the consumption of sodium in most adults and children.

WHO recommends a reduction to <2 g/day sodium (5 g/day salt) in adults.

WHO recommends a reduction in sodium intake in children. The recommended maximum level of intake of 2 g/day sodium in adults should be adjusted downward based on the energy requirements of children relative to those of adults.

These recommendations recognize that salt reduction and salt iodization are compatible. Monitoring of salt intake and salt iodization at country level is needed to adjust salt iodization over time as necessary, depending on observed salt intake in the population, to ensure that individuals consuming the recommended amount of sodium continue to consume sufficient iodine.