White killer

It´s almost everywhere and it silently destroys us. Naturally, our bodies need salt but we eat much more than is necessary. The recommended amount is only one teaspoon which is approximately 5 grams but we unwillingly consume much more of it. We don´t even realize what a huge amount of salt is contained in ordinary groceries. Moreover, those who cannot seem to put their salt shaker away at a dining table may be doing a lot of harm to themselves.

To name the most frequent risks, it would be high blood pressure which is a main contributor to stroke and heart attack, kidney problems, live problems, and possibly an osteoporosis or stomach cancer. Nowadays there is still more and more evidence to prove that salt can worsen symptoms of asthma, eczema, or rheumatics. It was also proven that an increased consumption of salt contributes to obesity since it increases thirst and thus makes us more prone to over-sweetened soft drinks, especially when talking about kids, which is even more alarming. Next, salt retains water in a body by which it prevents the excretion of harmful substances.

A bit healthier alternative could be Himalayan salt. It contains all the necessary minerals needed for our bodies. It is a natural crystalline salt and because it was created by a dry out of an ancient sea in a depth of 500 meters, it is absolutely pure. Himalayan salt detoxifies the body and improves all the risks which an ordinary salt causes. If you need more taste, try using herbs, lemon, chili peppers, or garlic. Your taste buds will get used to the new flavors and without over-salting you will be able to actually taste the real flavors of food.

At the end we include a list of foods which contain a high share of salt. We know it´s time-consuming and exhausting to read every label in the supermarket in detail, but we believe that with a little bit of help with our list you can at least decrease the amount of salt and help yourself to be a healthier person. Try to stay away or limit intake of the following:

• Sausages, hams, hot-dogs, bacon
• Blue cheese, Feta cheese, Gouda, Edam
• Condiments and flavorings like ketchup, mustard, sauces
• Olives, capers, anchovies, mayonnaise
• Instant soups, canned food
• Fast food, chips, salted and roasted nuts

by Katarína Vicová