The Salty Details

The Salty Details

I have to admit it…I crave salty foods far more than sweet ones.  And while salt did not work out so well for Lot’s wife (see Genesis 19:26), it has always put a smile on my face!

Growing up, the only salt option was table salt, which was typically iodized to prevent goiter (enlargement of the thyroid gland in the neck), which was a problematic issue at the time. Today, as with most edible items for sale, there are numerous varieties to choose from. But is there really much difference—apart from taste? Is one salt healthier than another?

Unfortunately the answer to both questions is “No”. Table salt and sea salt are both comprised of sodium and chloride. And sodium needs to be reined in to protect against rising blood pressure. That said; because sea salt’s particles are larger, you may find you experience a better “salt lick” effect when you use this salt variety because the grains can linger on your tongue a bit longer.

Whether you have high blood pressure or not, you likely need to cut back on your salt intake as it has been found that most Americans eat twice the recommended amount each day!

Here are three ways to scale back on the sodium you ingest:

1)       Significantly limit “exposure” to fast foods, canned soups, and pre-packaged meals from your diet. These contain a mother lode of salt!

2)      When dining out, ask for low sodium options or meal preparation.

3)      Pump up the flavors of the foods you do prepare. Adding the zest of citrus fruit, chopped fresh herbs, and dried seasonings such as cumin, curry, and pepper can give your taste buds the thrill they seek—without all that harmful sodium.