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Real Life Nutrition Questions Answered
printReal Life Fitness Questions Answered
Emma Brown
Nutritionist
Janet Aylott
Nutritionist
Kelly Marshall
Fitness Consultant
Q.
How does eating too much salt affect us?
I have a real thing for salt and salty foods - could this indicate that my diet is lacking in some respect? I would estimate that 60-80% of my diet consists of fruit and veg and I rarely eat anything considered sweet as it doesn't appeal, but sometimes I quite literally crave salt. How does eating too much salt affect us? Does it encourage fluid retention?
A.
Our expert says...
However, I'm afraid that is the only good news as far as salt is concerned. Salt raises sodium levels in the body, which causes more water to be retained in your tissues in an attempt to dilute it. This can cause problems with bloating and fluid retention. More seriously, there are now numerous studies which link high sodium levels to the more dangerous health issue of high blood pressure (hypertension).
Sodium, found in salt, is an important mineral in the body, but nature provides adequate levels in the foods that we eat. Unfortunately, many food manufacturers also add high levels of salt to processed food, so always check labels carefully. Government guidelines recommend that adults have no more than 6 grams of salt a day, but many of us consume more than this without realising. It is unlikely that your body is lacking in sodium and much more likely that you are addicted to it.
So, I am afraid, if you want to look after your long-term health, you need to consider giving up salt. You can wean yourself off salty foods slowly, or go cold turkey (which is often more effective). You may be surprised how quickly your cravings disappear. Meanwhile, try using herbs to add flavour to your cooking and use lemon for a zesty taste or chilli or ginger for some added zing. And keep going with the very healthy looking diet that you have based on loads of fruit and veg!
Disclaimer
You are advised to seek medical advice before making any changes to your diet or lifestyle with an aim of weight loss. This website and the content provided should not be used by persons under 18, by pregnant or nursing women, or individuals with any type of health condition, except under the direct supervision of a qualified medical professional. The information contained in these articles, and elsewhere on this website, is provided for educational and entertainment purposes only, and is not intended to replace, and does not constitute legal, professional, medical or healthcare advice or diagnosis and may not be used for such purposes. Continue...
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