Most of us consume far more salt than we need. For instance, the daily salt intake for the average American is between 4000 and 8000 milligrams . . . when only 2400 milligrams is considered a moderate daily intake. So what’s the big deal?
The Big Deal is . . . common table salt is not a whole food. It has been refined so that it contains only one element, sodium chloride, and has been processed using high heat, and has multiple fillers and additives. Among these additions are anti-caking agents such as calcium silicate and dextrose (yes, salt often has sugar in it).
While salt is essential for certain body functions and to maintain electrolyte balance, the quality of common table salt makes this substance potentially more damaging than healthful.
Too Much Salt: The Negative Effects On Your Health
Causes Water Retention
Too much table salt causes the body’s tissues to “hold” water in an attempt to maintain fluid balance in the body. Cells function best when the salt content of the fluid within them (intra-cellular fluid) and the salt content of the fluid surrounding them (extra-cellular fluid) is the same.
When there is too much salt in the body, cells will release water from within to dilute the sodium-saturated water around them, and vice-versa. The water remains trapped in the tissues as the body attempts to maintain the salt-to-water ratio. Water retention is not just uncomfortable; it contributes to weight gain, high blood pressure, and other problems (as you’ll see below).
Causes Circulatory Problems
Some people’s blood pressure is more profoundly affected by salt than others. Nonetheless, even the experts have trouble distinguishing who is most susceptible to sodium-induced high blood pressure (hypertension). When sodium causes high blood pressure, the potential for lethal circulatory problems is significant. Those with hypertension are more at risk for heart attack, stroke, and overall blood vessel damage.
Affects Kidneys Function
These vital organs are also affected by excessive sodium intake. If blood vessels in the kidneys are damaged by hypertension, the kidney becomes less efficient. Thus, excess fluid and toxins accumulate in the body because the kidneys are not able to filter them out efficiently. As noted above, retained fluid increases blood pressure and the cycle continues.
Inhibits Calcium Absorption
Excessive sodium can inhibit the absorption of calcium by increasing its secretion in the urine. Proper absorption of calcium is essential for bone and joint health and proper muscular function.
Interestingly, natural sea salts often contain calcium and magnesium, the latter a mineral which enhances calcium absorption.
So, for health-sake . . . keep your salt intake in check.
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