What you should know about salt and salting

Composition and Role in the Human Body

Salt consists of two ions: positively charged sodium and negatively charged chloride. These ions are crucial for maintaining the electrolyte balance necessary for the proper functioning of the nervous system and muscles. Salt intake increases plasma osmotic pressure, influencing body fluid balance and consequently blood pressure. It also plays a role in producing stomach acid, essential for digestion.

Significance in Food Preparation

Salt enhances the flavor of food and makes it more enjoyable, playing a vital role in appetite regulation. Its most well-known function in food preparation is preservation, as it inhibits the growth of bacteria and other microorganisms. Additionally, it balances and highlights flavors in food preparation, aiding in the consistency and structure of dough in bread and pasta making.

Health Impacts of Excessive Salt Consumption

It is crucial to note that excessive salt consumption can lead to health issues. High blood pressure, one of the main risk factors associated with high salt intake, increases the frequency of cardiovascular and kidney diseases. In Hungary, nearly half of the deaths in 2019 were due to cardiovascular diseases, significantly influenced by high blood pressure.

Preventing high blood pressure involves a healthy diet, reducing salt intake, maintaining normal weight, avoiding excessive alcohol and smoking, and engaging in regular physical activity. Reducing salt intake can decrease blood pressure, thus avoiding many cardiovascular events and deaths. Excessive salt can also increase calcium excretion in the kidneys, contributing to decreased bone mineral density and accelerating osteoporosis.