Despite all the warnings that salt it bad for you, it's actually essential for normal body functions, so get salty! But first, you should know which type to be salty with.
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REFINED TABLE SALT
The most consumed salt in the US is refined table salt. It is mined from underground salt deposits and heavily processed to give it its fine texture. Chemical additives are then used to prevent caking and clumping. This intensive process eliminates any trace minerals naturally found in refined salt. Much of our processed foods such as breads, crackers, pizza, cold cut meats, and savory snacks such as popcorn and chips contain moderate amounts of refined salt. Considering the amount of processed foods the average American consumes, we can conclude that most Americans are consuming too much refined salt.
In some cases refined table salt can and does cause health issues. This is because of the heavy processed form being stripped of all other minerals (and therefore cofactors as well). The result is sodium and chloride only. When combined with the high sugar, high carbohydrate, high fat of processed foods it creates an imbalanced ratio that our bodies otherwise need. This imbalance in the body can lead to dehydration, fluid retention, hypertension, inflammation and disease amongst others. These issues would not otherwise occur with protagonist minerals that aid as cofactors for a variety of bodily functions.
Therefore, we should aim to consume whole foods and add in healthier salts:
SEA SALT
Sea salt is produced from the evaporation of saltwater. It is minimally processed and therefore contains many trace minerals such as magnesium, calcium, potassium, iron, and zinc. Harvesting sea salt from various regions has resulted in various types and flavor profiles, ie. Celtic Sea Salt, Maldon Sea Salt, Hawaiian red and black sea salts, etc.
HIMALAYAN SALT
Himalayan salt is mined from the foothills of the Himalayans in the Punjab region of Pakistan. It's trace minerals are what actually gives it it's pink color (and yes, chunks of this salt rock make up genuine salt lamps).
Contrary to the adverse health affects that consuming too much refined table salt can cause, sea salts and Himalayan salts have many health benefits. Here's a few:
➤ Increases hydration + replenishes electrolytes
➤ Aids in digestion
➤ Supports adrenal gland function
➤ Prevents muscle cramps
➤ Supports healthy skin
HYDRATION + ELECTROLYTES
Refined table salt can actually cause dehydration because of the imbalance of minerals and cofactors. It essentially causes your body to leech essential minerals from previous stores as it tries to process the imbalanced refined table salt. Because sea salt and Himalayan salts contain the original trace minerals and cofactors it actually replenishes electrolytes and helps to keep you hydrated when sweating.
► Try adding a bit of sea salt or Himalayan salt to your water pre or post workout. It is a much healthier choice than that sugar and dye laden "sports" drink. Add a squeeze of lemon or lime for added flavor!
DIGESTION
Sea salts and Himalayan salts actually aid in digestion. It starts in the mouth; the taste/flavor of the salt triggers an enzymatic reaction releasing amylase. Amylase is the primary enzyme responsible for the breakdown of carbohydrates starting in the saliva. Salt is also a key component in stomach acid, also known as hydrochloric acid, in which it can influence its PH. Hydrochloric acid is responsible for breaking down proteins and minerals in our food so that our body can properly digest and absorb them. Having imbalanced hydrochloric acid can lead to a plethora of problems including bloating, abdominal cramps, distention, and more.
ADRENAL GLAND FUNCTION
Adrenal fatigue is seemingly increasing, many times it can be the result of stress and poor diet. One of the most prominent symptoms of adrenal fatigue is salt cravings. That's because the body is lacking the essential minerals that can be found in sea salts and Himalayan salts. The adrenal glands need the correct ratio of minerals to perform optimally or even minimally to sustain function and these salts can help to provide that.
MUSCLE CRAMPS
When the body does not have enough salt and other mineral cofactors we can experience muscle cramping. This may be a result of improper function of the sodium-potassium pump. This pump not only plays a crucial role for our energy production and storage at the cellular level but is also consequently responsible for muscle contraction and nerve impulse transmission. Without the proper ratio of sodium and potassium both inside and outside our cells we can experience muscle weakness, spasms, cramps. Since sea salts and Himalayan salts contain not just sodium but also other mineral cofactors such as potassium, they can therefore aid in preventing muscle cramps.
HEALTHY SKIN
Both sea salts and Himalayan salts make great exfoliators because of their course textures. Exfoliating is important because it clears away our dead skin cells, unclogs pores, helps to prevent acne, stimulates collagen synthesis, boosts circulation and lymphatic drainage and more. Mixing the salt with sweet almond oil and your favorite essential oil makes for a spa like body scrub! Plant Therapy Lavender is my favorite. You can also add the salt directly to a nice warm bath and still receive added benefits.
Here's a great video from Dr. Axe regarding Sea Salt benefits as well.
All in all, my go to salt for eating is Celtic Sea Salt! It has a very tangible, robust flavor profile. You want a fancy chef like flavor? Go with Celtic Sea Salt!
Mathew 5:13, Mark 9:50, Luke 13:34, Leviticus 2:13
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