Mainstream media and conventional medicine have demonized salt in the favor of heart health. But let’s not lump all salt in one bucket. The truth is not all salt is created equal and there is definitely a difference between the heavily processed, typical table salt that is stripped of all its nutrients and the unrefined, mineral-rich varieties like Himalayan sea salt and Celtic salt.
It’s important to understand that our bodies have evolved to thrive with salt over thousands of years. In fact, it is incredibly important to our basic survival and wellbeing. Unfortunately the highly refined, purified forms of sodium chloride (table salt) is what appears most often in processed foods in excessive amounts to make these foods taste pleasing to our palates. Unfortunately this refined sodium is far from being supportive for our health.
According to the FDA, this unhealthy form of sodium accounts for more than 70 percent of the total salt intake among Americans and is often consumed in excess through multi ingredient packaged processed foods, or in take out and restaurant foods. Only 30 percent or less of salt intake is added to foods at the table after cooking or the small amounts of salt that are naturally found in some whole foods (like meat and dairy).
Sodium is added to packaged and processed foods not only because it enhances the taste, but also because it acts as a preservative and therefore plays a role in food safety allowing these foods to have an extended shelf life. For many Americans who eat a diet high in processed foods or regularly eat out it’s important to be aware of the likelihood of consuming rather high quantities of this type of unhealthy sodium.
Pure Himalayan and Celtic salts on the other hand, with their high mineral content are hailed not just for their culinary uses but also for their physical, spiritual, and healing benefits. Unrefined Himalayan sea salt in its natural form has up to 80 essential trace minerals and electrolytes that are supportive and essential for your metabolic function, including proper nerve and muscle function, digestive health, respiratory health, regulating blood pressure, maintaining acid-base balance, hydration, and much, much more. Your body actually depends and thrives on these types of salt!
Beyond their physical attributes, Himalayan and Celtic salts hold significance in various spiritual practices. In many cultures, salt is revered for its cleansing and protective properties. From ancient rituals to contemporary ceremonies, salt is used to ward off negative energies, purify sacred spaces, and symbolize purity and preservation.
Himalayan salt and salt lamps, often crafted from large salt crystals and illuminated from within, have gained popularity for their detoxification and ability to promote relaxation and mental clarity. Many believe these lamps emit negative ions, akin to those found in natural settings like waterfalls or forests, fostering a sense of tranquility and balance in indoor environments. These are believed to possess ionizing properties. As they are releasing their negative ions they are thought to neutralize harmful positive ions in the environment, thus purifying the air and promoting respiratory health. Whether in the form of salt baths, or salt lamps incorporating Himalayan salt into daily routines can contribute to a cleaner, healthier living space.
Salt therapy, also known as halotherapy, has gained traction as a complementary approach to respiratory ailments like asthma, allergies, and sinusitis. In salt caves or through salt inhalers, the antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties of salt particles are believed to alleviate congestion, reduce inflammation, and promote respiratory health.
Written by Sue Rapley
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