‘Pass me that salt shaker’ is one worst form of request at least in the dictionary of health. It is good that you reduce salt in your diet in case if you are one of the persons who often ask for a salt shaker.
Salt is a mineral which is comprised of sodium chloride. The amount of our intake of salt directly affects our health and blood pressure the higher the salt intake, the higher the blood pressure. High intake of salt causes water retention in the body which leads to swelling in ankles and weight gain. It also worsens osteoporosis, asthma and kidney disease. High salt intake is closely related with stomach and mouth cancer.
Nutritionists have recommended one teaspoon or less of salt per day for adults. For kids it should be lower than one tsp. Be warned that salt comes from prepared foods like breads, crackers, canned and frozen foods, ready to eat breakfast cereals, cheese and restaurant foods.
Eating unprocessed foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, wild fish, chicken, egg and milk increases your potassium content which is a good thing. It also adds vitamins, minerals, phyto-nutrients, fiber and healthy fats.
But for those who cannot live without crisps there is an interesting piece of information. Food scientists have found a way to reduce salt content in chips without compromising the taste. And I hope these will be available in the market very soon.
Swarnam