News FROM THE WORLD OF MEDICINE

The Benefits of Baking with Less Salt

- MARK WITTEN

Globally, people consume an average of 10.1 grams of salt per day, twice the recommended maximum daily amount, and a rate that raises the risk for heart and kidney disease, as well as stroke. While much of that surplus comes from restaurant meals and packaged foods, bread and other baked goods are often overlooked as a viable target for salt reduction. According to an American study out of the University of Illinois, reducing salt and increasing the amount of herbs and spices when you bake could take a big slice out of sodium intake without sacrificing taste and leavening ability. If you bake at home, the researchers suggest using only half the amount of salt called for in the recipe.

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