Think you know salt? Think again!

Salt is a mineral composed of sodium and chloride, two elements that are vital for many biological functions. Salt is also known as rock salt or halite when it forms natural crystals. Salt is one of the oldest and most widely used food seasonings, as it can enhance the flavor of almost any dish. However, salt also has other roles and impacts that you may not be aware of. Here are some facts and tips about salt that you should know.

Salt is essential for life, but too much or too little can be harmful

Salt helps regulate the fluid balance, blood pressure, nerve impulses, and muscle contractions in our bodies. However, consuming too much salt can raise the risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, and other health problems. On the other hand, consuming too little salt can cause hyponatremia, a condition where the sodium level in the blood is too low, which can lead to confusion, seizures, coma, and even death.

The recommended daily intake of salt varies depending on age, health status, and activity level

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the average adult should consume less than 5 grams (about one teaspoon) of salt per day. However, some people may need more or less salt depending on their age, health conditions, medications, and physical activity. For example, older adults, pregnant women, people with diabetes, kidney disease, or heart failure may need to limit their salt intake more than others. People who sweat a lot due to exercise or hot weather may need to replenish their salt losses more than others.

Most of the salt we eat comes from processed foods, not from the salt shaker

According to the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, more than 75 percent of the sodium we consume comes from processed foods such as bread, cheese, cured meats, canned soups, sauces, snacks, and fast foods. These foods often contain hidden salt that we may not taste or notice. Therefore, it is important to read the nutrition labels and choose foods that are low in sodium or have no added salt. It is also advisable to cook more at home using fresh ingredients and herbs and spices instead of salt.

There are different types of salt available in the market, but they are not significantly different in terms of nutrition

Salt can come in various colors, shapes, sizes, and origins depending on how it is processed and where it is sourced from. Some common types of salt include table salt, sea salt, kosher salt, Himalayan pink salt, Celtic salt, black salt, and flake salt. However, all types of salt are made of sodium chloride and have similar nutrient content. The main difference between them is the taste, texture, and price. Some salts may contain small amounts of minerals or additives such as iodine or anti-caking agents that may affect their color or flavor.

Salt can also have other uses besides seasoning food

Salt has been used for various purposes throughout history such as preserving food, making soap, cleaning wounds, melting ice, tanning leather, dyeing fabric, and more. Salt can also have some benefits for our skin, hair, teeth, and nails when used externally as a scrub, mask, rinse, or soak. However, these uses should be done with caution and moderation as too much salt can also cause irritation or damage.

In conclusion,

Salt is a common and essential substance that has many uses and effects on our lives. However, we should be aware of how much salt we consume and choose wisely what type of salt we use.

Too much or too little salt can have negative consequences for our health and well-being.

Therefore, we should aim to eat a balanced diet that includes a variety of foods that are low in sodium or have no added salt.

We should also limit our intake of processed foods that are high in sodium and cook more at home using fresh ingredients and herbs and spices instead of salt.

We should also enjoy the other benefits of salt for our skin, hair, teeth, and nails when used externally as a scrub, mask, rinse, or soak.

However, we should do these with caution and moderation as too much salt can also cause irritation or damage.