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Shaking up the Salt and High Blood Pressure Myth
We’ve received several warnings about the dangers of salt to our health.
Many health organizations have claimed that high salt intake causes several conditions like heart disease and high blood pressure. But then, these claims do not have solid scientific backing despite decades of research (1).
Also, many nutritional studies have shown that not eating enough salt can cause harm to your health.
This article will differentiate the myths and the facts about salt (sodium) and high blood pressure.
What is salt?
Another name for salt is sodium chloride. The salt that we use in cooking is 40% sodium and 60 % chloride.
Salt is a primary dietary source of sodium. This explains why “sodium” and “salt” are used interchangeably.
There are also trace amounts of potassium, calcium, zinc, and iron in some salt varieties. Table salt contains iodine as well (2, 3).
Salt contains essential minerals that serve as electrolytes. These electrolytes regulate fluid balance, muscle function, and nerve transmission.
Most foods contain salt, naturally. Salt is also added to foods as a flavoring agent.
