Salt: need and health effects

Salt: need and health effects

salt: need and health effects

Salt is an essential mineral that plays an important role in human nutrition. It is not only used to season food, but also has numerous important functions in the body. A balanced salt consumption is therefore crucial for good health. In this article we will examine the need for salt for the human body and consider the health effects of a too high or too low salt consumption.

salt: an important resource

Salt, chemically known as sodium chloride (NACL), has been known in human nutrition for centuries as a preservative and flavor enhancers. It was used as a valuable currency in the past and has played an important role in trade and history. Nowadays, salt is widespread in most households and in the food industry.

The need for salt

The role of sodium and chloride in the body

Salt consists of sodium and chloride, two essential minerals in the human body. Sodium is important for maintaining the fluid balance, the transmission of nerve impulses and muscle contraction. Chloride is necessary for digestion, regulation of the pH value and the production of gastric acid.

recommended daily dose

The recommended daily dose for adults is around 5 grams of salt per day. This corresponds approximately to a teaspoon. Children have a lower need, while athletes and people who sweat a lot may need a slightly higher dose.

The connection between salt and high blood pressure

Too high salt consumption can lead to high blood pressure, which in turn increases the risk of cardiovascular diseases. People with high blood pressure are often advised to reduce salt consumption to reduce blood pressure. It is important to note that not all people react immediately to a salty diet. Some people are more sensitive to the blood pressure -increasing effect of salt than others.

The effects of too high salt consumption

Hypertension and cardiovascular diseases

As already mentioned, too high salt consumption is associated with an increased risk of high blood pressure and cardiovascular diseases. High blood pressure can lead to damage to the blood vessels, the heart and other vital organs. A healthy diet with moderate salt consumption can reduce the risk of these diseases.

kidney problems

Too high salt consumption can also burden the kidneys. The kidneys are responsible for regulating the salt and water balance in the body. If too much salt is consumed, this can lead to an increased stress on the kidneys, which can lead to kidney problems in the long term.

osteoporosis

Some studies suggest that excessive salt consumption can increase the risk of osteoporosis. This is because salt can increase the calcium excretion over the urine, which can lead to a lower bone mineral density. A balanced diet with sufficient calcium intake is important to reduce the risk of osteoporosis.

The effects of too low salt consumption

Hyponatremia

Too low salt consumption can lead to hyponatremia, a disorder of the electrolyte balance in the body. Symptoms of hyponatremia can even be nausea, headache, confusion and in severe cases even seizures. It is important to keep salt consumption in balance to ensure healthy electrolyte balance.

muscle cramps

Low salt consumption can lead to muscle cramps because salt plays a role in muscle contraction. Sufficient salt intake is particularly important for athletes and people who are physically active.

thyroid problems

Too low salt consumption can also have an impact on the thyroid gland. The thyroid gland produces hormones that are responsible for metabolism and other important body functions. Salt is important for maintaining a healthy thyroid function.

FAZIT

Salt is an important part of human nutrition that is essential for good health. A balanced salt consumption is crucial to support the different functions of the body and reduce the risk of diseases. However, it is important to keep salt consumption as part of the recommended daily dose and to be aware of possible health effects of too high or too low salt consumption. A balanced diet with fresh food and moderate salt consumption can help to achieve optimal health.

More about natural and healthy nutrition can be found in our advisory magazine ein-heilpraktiker.com