Veglog

Is Salt Bad For You?

Author: Noel Hurtley · Date: November 14, 2007

Yes, if you are using the salt that is sold in retail stores and is in the average salt shaker all across the world. But there is more to this story.

The problem with table salt

According to Elizabeth Yarnell at Organic.org:

Table salt, the kind that is ubiquitous in shakers on restaurant tables and in pantries across this country, has been so processed and refined that it is devoid of nutritional benefits. Further, it can contain additives such as aluminum, which has been linked to Alzheimer’s disease, and other desiccants to keep it smooth-flowing and clump-free.

The article goes on to state:

Common table salt can contribute to heart disease, overload internal organs, and exacerbate hypertension.

She laters adds that it also contains aluminum and other desiccants to keep it lump free that may lead to Alzheimer’s disease.

The flip-side

Salt is actually an essential part of the diet, with the following known benefits:

• proper digestion
• balancing internal fluid levels to prevent swelling
• proper functioning of the nervous system
• preventing muscle cramps
• getting a good nights sleep
• proper calcium absorption without which contributes to osteoporosis
• its vital role in sexuality and healthy libido

You are probably just as surprised as I was.

The solution

Buy sea salt. Sea salt has approximately 80 minerals and trace elements that keep your body healthy. Although iodine is added to regular salt to prevent hyperthyroidism, if you eat healthy foods you may not need this extra iodine.

Foods that contain iodine are kelp, yogurt, 2% diary milk, boiled eggs, strawberries, and mozzarella cheese. If you live in an area that has iodine depleted soil you may need to take a supplement. It is wise to check with your doctor in that regard.

So next time, pass the sea salt.