Health experts associated with the campaign said a traditional cup of Noon Chai may contain between 0.5 and 1.5 grams of salt, depending on the method of preparation.
"People who drink four to six cups a day may ingest between two and nine grams of salt from Noon Chai alone."
While Describing Noon Chai as an integral part of Kashmir's cultural heritage, the campaign stresses moderation rather than avoidance.
It notes that excessive sodium intake is linked to high blood pressure, coronary artery disease, stroke, chronic kidney disease, fluid retention and worsening heart failure.
Health experts further advise increasing the consumption of fresh fruits, vegetables and home-cooked meals, while maintaining physical activity and undergoing regular health check-ups.
‘Regular drinkers take up to 15g salt daily’
Irfan Tramboo
Srinagar, June 12: Many habitual 'Noon Chai' drinkers in Kashmir may be consuming between 10 and 15 grams of salt daily-up to three times the World Health Organization's (WHO) recommended limit-according to a public health awareness campaign launched by the Department of Community Medicine at Government Medical College (GMC) Srinagar.
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The campaign, aimed at tackling the growing burden of non-communicable diseases in the Valley, warns that excessive consumption of the traditional salted pink tea could significantly increase the risk of hypertension, heart disease, stroke and chronic kidney disease.
According to the awareness material, the average Indian adult consumes around 8 to 11 grams of salt per day, while many regular Noon Chai consumers in Kashmir may consume 10 to 15 grams or more.
The WHO recommends that adults consume less than five grams of salt daily, equivalent to about one level teaspoon.
Health experts associated with the campaign said a traditional cup of Noon Chai may contain between 0.5 and 1.5 grams of salt, depending on the method of preparation.
"People who drink four to six cups a day may ingest between two and nine grams of salt from Noon Chai alone."
When combined with salt consumed through regular meals, pickles, salted snacks and processed foods, total daily salt intake can easily exceed recommended limits, the experts said.
While Describing Noon Chai as an integral part of Kashmir's cultural heritage, the campaign stresses moderation rather than avoidance.
It notes that excessive sodium intake is linked to high blood pressure, coronary artery disease, stroke, chronic kidney disease, fluid retention and worsening heart failure.
The advisory points out that Kashmir already faces a substantial burden of lifestyle-related illnesses and says reducing salt consumption remains one of the most effective preventive measures.
As part of the awareness drive, residents have been urged to reduce the amount of salt used while preparing Noon Chai and gradually adapt to a lower-salt taste.
The campaign also recommends limiting the number of cups consumed each day and cutting down on other high-salt foods such as pickles, papad, processed snacks and packaged foods.
Health experts further advise increasing the consumption of fresh fruits, vegetables and home-cooked meals, while maintaining physical activity and undergoing regular health check-ups.
The campaign also promoted healthier summer beverages, including plain water, buttermilk, unsalted lassi, lemon water and basil seed-based drinks.
The Department of Community Medicine said even small reductions in salt intake can lead to significant health benefits, including lower blood pressure, reduced risk of stroke and heart disease, and improved kidney health.
