What is wrong with Salt?

By Nebil Abdillahi

Common table salt is another product that is bad for our health. Salt contains sodium and chloride. Both are essential in the diet. However, most American consume more salt and sodium than they need. In early times, when people did not have access to refrigeration appliances, salt was originally used to preserve food. It was so valuable, in fact, that it was frequently used as money. Most foods we normally eat contain sodium and chloride, without having to add any from a salt shaker. Most nutritionists believe that between the extra salt we sprinkle on our food and the amount added by food processors, we can end up with 10 to 25 times too much salt. Salt is known to cause high blood pressure, and hypertension (a disease that can kill you before you know you have it). According to the US dept. of Health and Human Services, in populations with diets low in slat, high blood pressure is less common than in those with diets high in salt. In this country, about one in three adults has high blood pressure. If these people restrict their salt and sodium intake then their blood pressure will usually fall. Salt has been known to cause heart problems.

Scientists estimate that 5,000 years ago, when humans began farming, they consumed less sodium. Today, the average American consumes four times more sodium. The big consumption of salt is one of the main causes of heart disease. Salt may damage arteries in the brain, according to the American College of Sports Medicine.

Research at the U. of Minnesota involved an experiment on laboratory rats with only mild hypertension. They were put on a high salt diet and more than 50% died within eight weeks. The cause of death was a series of mini stroke. Most of the rats that were on a low salt diet survived.
Salt is a hidden drug in today’s society. An excessive intake of salt can lead to health problems. There is enough natural salt in food we eat so that we do not have to add any. To have a healthier life, throw away your salt shaker and try using small quantities of herbs and spices as substitute.

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This article is for information purposes only. It is not meant to diagnose, treat or prevent any disease or condition. Consult your primary health care provider if you have or suspect you have any physical ailments