NUTRITION PRINCIPLE 8 – Use unrefined salt
It supplies critical minerals that you need for vibrant health. Typical white table salt has been processed to remove these minerals for more profitable purposes, and you are buying the waste product.
Unrefined salt from the ocean is 75-89% sodium chloride. The balance is magnesium, potassium, calcium, sulfur, and small amounts of over 70 trace minerals and other elements. My favorites are Celtic Sea Salt and Baja Gold.
Salts from the earth, such as Pink Himalayan and Redmond, contain 92-97% sodium chloride. The red color of these salts is from iron, and is not an indicator of high levels of other minerals. Refined table salt contains 99% sodium chloride and may have added iodine, as well as aluminum to make it pour more easily.
Salt is critical for many biological functions. It is needed for hormone balance, for the brain and nervous system, digestion, to regulate body fluids and electrolytes, and for feeling satisfied after a meal. If you have a sore tooth, try swishing with 1/2 tsp salt in 1/2 cup water for 3-4 minutes daily.
But what about blood pressure? Lowering refined salt may be helpful in 10% of those with high blood pressure. Many people with high blood pressure are actually helped by using unrefined mineral-rich salt while strictly avoiding refined salt. High blood pressure is a complex issue, and it is best to understand why the body may feel the need to do this.
How much salt do we need? About 1-2 teaspoons of unrefined salt daily. Remember, most processed foods contain excessive amounts of unhealthy, refined salt and are best avoided.
Read last weeks article here: Nutrition Principle 7 -Eat foods that contain naturally occurring enzymes.
Dr. Veronica Tilden can be your ally in having vibrant health. She uses traditional hands-on osteopathy to diagnose and treat. She helps you take responsibility for your health and guides you in making better choices in your life. Her office is in North Fork. You can find out more and schedule an appointment at DrVeronicaTilden.com.
