Halt the Salt - KAUZ-TV: Newschannel 6 Now | Wichita Falls, TX

Salt intake is growing among kids. Studies show that kids are eating just as much salt as adults.

Health experts from the Wichita County - Wichita Falls Public Health Department said they want people, especially kids, to think twice before sprinkling the salt.

The Public Health Department said incidents of hypertension and blood pressure in Wichita Falls alone, are almost twice than the state average.

Health experts said every child should be consuming no more than 2,300 milligrams of salt daily, which is equal to one teaspoon. They said kids are consuming about 1,000 milligrams too much.

Adults should also be eating no more than 2,300 milligrams of salt a day.

The Public Health Department said cooking fresh and getting creative in the kitchen can bring sodium levels down.

Will Carter, Program Director of Transforming Texas, at the Health Department, said, "Spices and herbs are sodium free and they also add flavor and zest to the food." Carter added, "Instead of putting a lot of salt, on say a chicken dish, try lemon or lime juice. It adds tremendous amounts of flavor to the food without the added salt."

Health experts said eating to much sodium can lead to hypertension or high blood pressure, which can then lead to heart disease or stroke.

Transforming Texas suggests buying fruits and vegetables in season to cut costs. Healthy recipes and lifestyle events in the community can be found on the Transforming Texas Website.

Natalie Garcia,  Newschannel 6