Salty Talking: Is Salt Good or Bad for the Health?

Salt, or sodium chloride (NaCl), is a colorless or white crystalline solid used as seasoning and preservatives in almost all kinds of dishes. It is already a vital ingredient in all kitchens all over the world.Unknown to many, food that you don't find salty can actually contain high amounts of salt. These include baby food preparation, pancakes, tuna fish, tomato juice, sardines, mayonnaise, and yes, even milk! These "unsalted" foods are actually heavily laced with additives and sodium such as sodium phosphates, sodium nitrates, sodium saccharine, sodium ascorbate and even monosodium glutamate.

But how much is the right amount of sodium intake? According to nutritionists, the right amount of sodium needed to sustain a life is about 220 mg. a day. This amount is equivalent to one-tenth of a teaspoon. According to experts, without this small amount of sodium, a person could feel nauseous and weak. Without salt intake, a person will just wither and die.

Alarmingly, lots of people take more than what is needed. Most take about six to 10 times more sodium, resulting to a string of diseases such as kidney disease and high blood pressure. Too much sodium intake could also lead to unexplained itches and allergies or body rashes.

To help you reduce sodium in your diet, place a salt shaker on the table. When preparing your meals, only half of what is called for. Explore and experiment with other spices, herbs, condiments, and seasoning but stay away from bouillon cubes since they contain lots of sodium. Eat lesser processed foods since they contain lots of monosodium glutamate and sodium-based preservatives. For those with high blood pressure, consult first with your doctor before taking cough preparations, antacids, vitamin C and laxatives. And drink two liters of water daily.

Reducing sodium in your diet may not be too easy. But a step at a time and you will soon be on your way to eating and living healthy.