Salt has long been thought of as a health hazard and for good reason. Too much salt can lead to high blood pressure which is a major risk factor for heart disease. But salt can also have benefits such as improving the function of our cells and helping to regulate our body’s fluids.
In small amounts salt is essential for our health. But does that mean that we should be eating it in large quantities?
A new study published in the journal Cell provides some evidence that salt may indeed be good for us at least in small doses. The study found that salt can increase the activity of a type of cell called brown adipose tissue (BAT) which is responsible for burning calories and generating heat.
In the study mice that were fed a high-salt diet had more active BAT than mice that were fed a low-salt diet. The high-salt diet also increased the activity of genes that are involved in energy expenditure and thermogenesis which is the production of heat.
So what does this mean for humans?
Well we don’t have BAT but we do have a similar type of cell called white adipose tissue (WAT). And like BAT WAT can also burn calories and generate heat.
The new study provides some evidence that salt may be able to increase the activity of WAT in humans. If this is the case then salt could potentially help us to lose weight or prevent weight gain.
Of course more research is needed before we can say for sure that salt has these effects in humans. But the new study is an interesting first step.
And even if salt doesn’t help us to lose weight it’s still essential for our health. So there’s no need to worry about cutting back on salt just yet.
What is the link between salt and heart rate?
While a direct link between salt and heart rate has not been established some studies suggest that consuming high amounts of salt can lead to an increased heart rate.
How does salt impact heart health?
Too much salt can lead to high blood pressure which is a major risk factor for heart disease.
What are the dangers of a high heart rate?
A high heart rate can lead to heart palpitations chest pain and shortness of breath.
It can also be a sign of an underlying medical condition.
How much salt is too much salt?
The American Heart Association recommends consuming no more than 2300 milligrams (mg) of salt per day.
What are the symptoms of salt sensitivity?
Salt sensitivity is when blood pressure rises in response to consuming salt.
People with salt sensitivity may experience headaches fatigue and bloating.
Who is at risk for salt sensitivity?
Salt sensitivity is more common in people with high blood pressure diabetes or kidney disease.
It can also be inherited.
Is there a difference between table salt and sea salt?
Table salt and sea salt are both high in sodium.
However sea salt also contains other minerals such as potassium and magnesium.
How can I reduce my salt intake?
You can reduce your salt intake by avoiding processed and packaged foods cooking at home more often and using herbs and spices instead of salt to flavor food.
What are the benefits of reducing salt intake?
Reducing salt intake can lower blood pressure improve heart health and reduce the risk of stroke.
What are some alternatives to salt?
Some alternatives to salt include lemon juice vinegar and herbs and spices.
How can I tell if I am consuming too much salt?
Some signs that you may be consuming too much salt include high blood pressure swelling in the hands and feet and headaches.
What are the consequences of consuming too much salt?
Some consequences of consuming too much salt include high blood pressure heart disease stroke and kidney disease.
What foods are high in salt?
Some foods that are high in salt include processed meats canned soups and fast food.
How can I reduce the salt in my diet?
You can reduce the salt in your diet by avoiding processed foods cooking at home more often and using herbs and spices instead of salt to flavor food.
What are the benefits of a low-salt diet?
Some benefits of a low-salt diet include lower blood pressure improved heart health and reduced risk of stroke.
