Which Salt to Use?

by Claire, 2 years ago

Salt has sparked my interest these days. First is the frequent suggestion of sea salt over table salt in healthy recipes. I’ve always wondered why, and until now, haven’t researched it. Second is the spotting of himalayan salt on the shelves. What is so special about these light pink crystals? I’ve been tempted to buy it out of curiosity, but wanted to learn why I should and what the benefits are before I do.

Table Salt, or NaCl, is the spice most of us use to add a little more flavor to our meal. It comes from underground salt mines and is highly processed and refined to remove all the minerals except for sodium (Na) and chloride (Cl). There are also anti-caking agents included to keep it from clumping. This inorganic substance now has an altered chemical structure that the body cannot easily break it down, wreaking havoc on our very sensitive system. Table salt creates an acidic environment in our bodies because it is always seeking its neutralizing counterparts – potassium, calcium, magnesium, and others. It can cause different ailments, such as arthritis, gout, and kidney and gall bladder stones. It can lead to high blood pressure and can harm the heart, kidneys, and other organs. The intake of table salt was such a problem, that many suffered from goiter. Iodine is now added to salt to prevent this and hyperthyroidism.

Sea Salt is a salt that is obtained by evaporating seawater, and is a less processed form of salt, contains more minerals, and believed to be “healthier.” It is true that there are levels of minerals, such as magnesium, potassium, calcium, and others that have remained in sea salt. The levels are so little, however, that the benefits are not incredibly effective. Additionally, according the the American Heart Association, sea salt and table salt have the same sodium content (40%) and sea salt is not actually better when it comes to watching your sodium intake.

I’ve actually never seen Himalayan Salt used at anybody’s house, but I’ve become curious as to it’s presence on the shelves. It turns out that this is the purest salt available. It comes from the abundant salt caves that were formed 250 million years ago in the Himalayas, before we created so much pollution. This salt contains 84 minerals and trace elements, nearly all of the natural elements found on the periodic table, in a raw and unprocessed form. Some of the benefits of Himalayan Salt include the following.

It aids in maintaining a balanced pH level. The pH of the human body should be about 7.4. Stress and a bad diet are two common problems that create a more acidic environment. Foods that are more acidic include meat, dairy, bread, pasta, sweets, caffeine, sodas, and alcohol. There are minerals in Himalayan Salt that counteract the acidity. These minerals include calcium, magnesium, sodium, potassium, lithium, and phosphorous.
It normalizes blood pressure, circulation, and heartbeat.
It has an electrical charge. This means that this crystal can help to transport nutrients, transport electrical messages between nerve cells, and contribute to regulation of the heart beat.
It dissolves/eliminates sediments leading to blood pressure.
It lowers the craving for addictive desires. Often our body just needs more minerals when the unhealthy cravings pop up.
It regulates water content throughout your body. When sodium chloride cannot be eliminated, our body uses its cell water to neutralize the salt. This isn’t the case with
It balances your blood sugar levels.
It helps with the absorption of food particles through your intestinal tract.
It supports your respiratory health
It clears up your sinuses. Mix with hot water and dissolve to help with any sinus issue you may be having.
It prevents muscle cramps.
It strengthens the structure of your bones. Your body takes the salt from your bones when it is deficient.
It helps to regulate your sleep.
It supports your libido.