Salt Reduction Day

What Is Salt Reduction Day?

The 17th of every month is "Salt Reduction Day," established in 2017 by the Japanese Society of Hypertension. The date comes from World Hypertension Day, set by the World Hypertension League, and Japan's own Hypertension Day, both of which fall on May 17th. Because cutting salt is a year-round effort, the society applied the date to every month.

Monthly, Not Annual

Choosing the 17th of every month rather than May 17th alone says a lot about the day's intent. Eating habits do not change overnight, so the aim is to create repeated occasions to remember.

• Established by: the Japanese Society of Hypertension, in 2017
• Origin of the date: World Hypertension Day and Japan's Hypertension Day both fall on May 17th
• Purpose: to get more people practicing the salt reduction that matters in preventing and treating high blood pressure
• Background: salt intake in Japan is high by international standards

December Is a Month When Salt Creeps Up

With year-end parties and frequent restaurant meals, December tends to push salt intake higher than usual. Hot pot broth, ramen soup and the firmly seasoned dishes of New Year osechi all crowd the winter table.

Tips for Marking This Day

• Leave the ramen or hot pot broth rather than drinking it down
• Compare the salt equivalent figures printed on food packaging
• Try dashi, spices and acidity so that less salt does not mean less flavor
• Review the seasonings at home and see which could be swapped for reduced-salt versions

A Small Check-In on the 17th

Salt reduction is not a one-off result but an accumulation of days, which is exactly why a monthly date was chosen. December, when eating patterns slip, is a good month to be reminded.