Friday, August 29, 2014

Why Excess Salt Is A Health Risk

By Sammy Ason


Avoiding salt is important when it comes to being healthy. While used to flavor many food items, salt is the most dangerous of seasonings. In order to keep your sodium levels in check, it might be wise to take a closer look at what you eat. As important as it may be, salt is only needed in scarce amounts by the body. Sadly, most people don't use it sparingly. You are able to achieve a good balance if you look into alternative spices in place of this tasty seasoning.

It's not possible to consume food these days that doesn't include salt. Salt not only is a key ingredient, it makes meals taste better.. For some people, if food doesn't have flavor they will refuse to eat it if it is bland. And this is clear to many who use salt.

But there is a line that should not be crossed. Salt is used in excess in most food preparation and something must be done because we are all influenced by this. Fast food as well as store bought food items are usually teaming with added salt and flavor enhancers.

In most take out businesses, food that is seasoned, especially with salt, will sell better and people become return customers. However if attention is paid to the amount of sodium in our meals and products, it won't be hard to realize that it is used too much. This should be a warning with regards to your health. Our body is not meant to withstand such levels of sodium. Research shows that on average, individuals consume more than is recommended on a daily basis. This dilemma is not going to go away anytime soon.

Risks to your health by salt

Hypertension

Heart failure

Renal breakdown

Prevents the digestion of various vitamins and minerals including calcium and can lead to osteoporosis

The coating of the stomach is eroded

The above are only some of the hazards that excess salt in the body may bring. There are measures you can take make sure you have a minimal amount of salt in your system.

Cut fast food out of your daily life

Be aware of product ingredients to make sure salt is used minimally

Use other seasonings to enhance the flavor of the food you cook

Stay hydrated by drinking water

Regular exercise can help keep you healthy

If you want to incorporate salt with your meals, use it in moderation

Eat fruit and vegetables for health




About the Author:



No comments: