3 Common Myths About Salt
1. Myth: Salt Is Unhealthy And Should Be Avoided
Fact: Actually, your body needs a certain amount of sodium each day to be healthy. Salt is an essential nutrient. Salt intake (in small doses) is important to the nervous system as well as the body's ability to regulate water intake. However, most of us consume more salt than is necessary and healthy. Although sodium intake should not be avoided, it should be limited in certain cases, for example, if you struggle with high blood pressure. Limiting processed foods, which are often very high in sodium, may be the best way to keep salt intake within recommended levels.
2. Myth: Salt Causes High Blood Pressure
Fact: Although it is true that people with high blood pressure may benefit from reducing sodium intake, numerous reviews have concluded that people with normal blood pressure will not necessarily develop high blood pressure from high salt intake. Many people with normal blood pressure have had a very high salt intake for years with no ill effects. Although the blood pressure and salt consumption link is certainly controversial, it's important to remember that there is no one size fits all solution regarding salt consumption.
3. Myth: Salt Makes You Fat
Most of know by now that most weight gain is caused by excess calories. So how many calories does salt have? 0! Adding or reducing salt in your diet will not result in significant long term changes to your weight. However, you may see temporary changes in weight due to the fact that excess salt causes your body to retain water.