What is the best type of salt

Although very criticized from a nutritional point of view, especially when consumed in excess (a practice and a habit very common today in our society, since we tend to add salt to practically all meals), the truth is that the sodium It is one of the most preponderant mineral elements in the blood and in the different extracellular liquids of our organism, having an extremely important role.

In fact, it intervenes in a large number of processes. For example, it helps the hydration of all our cells, to maintain the balance between the various liquids of our body and in the maintenance of the acid-base balance, among others.

However, we must pay special attention to what are the consequences of excessive consumption of salt in health to realize the risk of adding large amounts of salt daily to food and meals we consume. Why? Very simple: most foods already provide the daily amount of sodium that our body needs, so the most appropriate to bring flavor to food is not to cook with more salt, but to opt for other healthier condiments, such as spices, plants and herbs.

Another useful option is to discover what is the best type of salt, but before we will discover some of its negative effects when we consume a lot of salt: it increases the risk of hypertension and heart disease, saturates the kidneys and can also cause cerebrovascular accidents.

Types of salt that can be found on the table

Common table salt: it is obviously the most usual. It is mainly sodium chloride, although fluorine and iodine can sometimes be added. It is extracted by industrial processes, and it is common to add additives and preservatives.
Unrefined sea salt: it is obtained by evaporating seawater, naturally. In addition to chlorine it usually contains sodium, fluorine, iodine and other minerals. Despite these nutrients, its highest content is occupied by sodium chloride.
Flower of salt: is a type of salt that forms on the surface of marine salt pans. It is really low in sodium chloride and in sodium, so it is hypotonic, which means it does not cause fluid retention.
Salt of the Himalayas: variety of salt that became famous a few years ago, and whose price sometimes tends to be little accessible. However, it contains essential nutrients, minerals and trace elements that make it an appropriate natural option.

What is the best type of salt, from a healthy point of view?

At this point it is normal that we consider what variety or type of health would be most appropriate from a healthy and nutritional point of view.

First of all, we must bear in mind that practically all varieties and types of salts contain sodium chloride, so that whatever the variety should always be consumed in moderation.

It is advisable, therefore, to always try to avoid adding salt to foods and foods in terms of sodium, as we find it in many foods in a natural way.

Therefore, if you prefer to add a little salt, the most appropriate are the salt flower and the salt of the Himalayas. Although in these cases we also recommend that you opt for other options, such as spices, herbs and plants when it comes to flavor the food.

If you want to discover healthy alternatives to salt, we recommend you read our article on natural and healthy seasonings.

Images | Tim Murtaugh / Jessica Spengler This article is published for informational purposes only. You can not and should not replace the consultation with a Nutritionist. We advise you to consult your trusted Nutritionist.