Ask the doctor: Breastfed babies get the right amount of salt

Obesity is driven by a combination of environmental, cultural and genetic factors. In Chennai, the weather is hot round the year, which decreases the inclination towards physical activity for people. Culturally, even non-vegetarians in Chennai eat meat only once or twice a week, which leads to a high-carb, high-fat diet. Moreover, due to genetic predisposition, Indians develop Type 2 diabetes at a younger age and lower BMI levels than other populations. Treatment plans usually include diet and lifestyle recommendations that aim to limit weight gain, and eventually help patients reach and stay at a healthy weight. 

Babies and children only need a small amount of salt in their diet. However, because salt is added to a lot of the food you buy, it is easy to have too much. Babies who are breastfed get the right amount of salt. Infant formula contains a similar amount of salt to breast milk. When you start introducing solid foods, remember not to add salt to the food you give to your baby, because their kidneys cannot cope with it. You should also avoid giving your baby ready-made food that are not made specifically for babies, such as breakfast cereals, because they may have high salt content.