Is Himalayan Rock Salt Better Than Table Salt For Blood Pressure Patients?

Salt is an essential component of any diet. Apart from enhancing the flavor of the food, it plays a vital role in various psychological functions in the body. Undoubtedly, salt is essential for health but it is crucial to consume it in moderation. Excessive salt consumption has been linked to certain health issues like higher blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, and kidney problems. While various types of salts are available in the market, it is important to choose minimally processed salts that offer health benefits.

For instance, table salts are highly processed which may develop certain health issues. On the other hand, Himalayan rock salt, being rich in various micronutrients, offers potential health benefits. Thus, recent years have witnessed a surge in demand for Himalayan rock salt as a healthier alternative to traditional table salt. Himalayan rock salt offers numerous health benefits, especially for individuals with high blood pressure.

Before landing on any conclusion, it is essential to delve deeper into the debate of the potential health benefits of Himalayan rock salt over table salt. It is essential to understand the composition of these two types of salt.

Himalayan rock salt vs. table salt
Himalayan rock salt is mined from ancient salt deposits in the Himalayan region. This natural treasure is rich in mineral contents such as potassium, calcium, and magnesium. Himalayan rock salt gets its pink hue color from the mineral contents and has gained popularity as a sustainable and eco-friendly alternative to table salt.

On the other hand, table salt, also known as refined salt or iodized salt, is a common type of salt derived from underground salt deposits. It undergoes extensive processing, for the removal of impurities, and minerals, resulting in pure sodium chloride crystals. During processing, additives like anti-caking agents and iodine are added.

Sodium and high blood pressure
While both salts contain sodium, Himalayan rock salt contains less sodium content in comparison to table salt. The sodium content in Himalayan rock salt is slightly less due to its larger crystal size. However, high sodium intake is a known risk factor for high blood pressure. High sodium intake can lead to fluid retention and increased blood volume. This ultimately puts strain on the heart and blood vessels. While one teaspoon of table salt contains 2360 mg of sodium, one teaspoon of Himalayan rock salt or Sendha Namak contains 1680 mg of sodium.

Which salt is better for blood pressure?
Regardless of the type of salt consumed, it is essential to maintain moderation to ensure a healthy balance and reap the benefits of this essential dietary component. Avoiding table salt, specifically in raw form, is advisable. However, going for Himalayan rock salt instead of table salt is the best option. Cutting down sodium in the diet is the best way to maintain blood pressure. Minerals like potassium and magnesium play a vital role in blood pressure management by counteracting the effects of sodium and promoting Vasodilation, the widening of blood vessels.

Even other potassium-based salts are a good replacement for table salt as it has up to 70% less sodium than table salt. So, Potassium salt doesn’t carry the same risks as table salt. Moreover, potassium-based salts may have a beneficial effect on blood pressure as potassium is an opponent of sodium.

Conclusion
It is recommended by The American Heart Association to limit sodium intake. While the ideal sodium intake should be 1500 mg per day, it should not be more than 2300 mg per day. The limit for most adults, especially those with high blood pressure. A small reduction of sodium content can improve blood pressure by about 5-6 mm hg.

Himalayan rock salt may offer some potential advantages. However, it is more expensive and less readily available than table salt. Moreover, it can be challenging for individuals with iodine deficiency, who must supplement their diet with iodized table salt or other iodine sources to prevent thyroid issues. Thus, moderation is the key to maintaining a healthy blood pressure level.

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