Why do you need salt?

Salt helps to maintain the proper balance of fluids in the body. When you sweat, you lose water and salt, so it is important to replace them by drinking plenty of fluids and eating salty foods.

2. Regulating blood pressure

Salt also plays a role in regulating blood pressure. When you have too little salt in your body, your blood pressure can drop, which can lead to dizziness, fainting, and other problems.

3. Supporting nerve and muscle function

Salt is essential for the proper functioning of nerves and muscles. Without enough salt, your muscles can become weak and your reflexes can slow down.

4. Facilitating digestion

Salt helps to facilitate the digestion of food by stimulating the production of saliva and stomach acid.

5. Preventing goiter

Salt is a source of iodine, which is essential for the proper functioning of the thyroid gland. Iodine deficiency can lead to goiter, a condition in which the thyroid gland becomes enlarged.

6. Other benefits

Salt also has a number of other benefits, including:

* Reducing the risk of heart disease

* Protecting against stroke

* Improving mental health

* Fighting off infection

* Promoting healthy skin and hair

However, it is important to note that too much salt can be harmful to health. For example, excessive salt intake can lead to high blood pressure, kidney disease, and stomach cancer.

The recommended daily intake of salt for adults is 2,300 milligrams (mg). However, some people may need to consume less salt, such as people with high blood pressure or kidney disease.

If you are concerned about your salt intake, talk to your doctor.