The results of a new poll showed that every sixth young person consumes a takeaway meal or a ready meal.

Researchers also found that three to four meals that under 18s consume every week are ready-to-eat meals.

Charities have issued a warning that these meals can usually have a higher content of salt and young people are subjecting themselves to risk of future health problems including stroke by eating too much.

The results of another survey show that half of the Britons eat excessive salt and 85 % admit that they do not include any exercises in their routine.

The consequence of excessive salt and lack of exercises is high blood pressure and it is also the largest factor contributing to higher risk of a stroke.

“Regular exercise and lifestyle choices can help prevent a stroke – clearly a message Britain still needs to hear,” said Joe Korner from the Stroke Association. In Britain, more than 150,000 people suffer a stroke annually.

The recommended intake of salt per day is 6g or one teaspoon as per the Food Standards Agency but a total of 78% admitted adding extra salt to their food.