Benefits of a Low Sodium Diet

Woody Short

7 years ago

Are you aware of the numerous benefits of a low sodium diet? Find out why this may be the change you need for a better health.

Ahh, the delightful sensation of pleasing that craving of something savory. There is quite possibly nothing better than that. However, you may be missing out of the benefits of a low sodium diet if you are a fan of salty treats.

Now, we are not saying that you need a salt free diet for weight loss or to maintain a good health standard, but the right amount may just be what you are missing.

The American Heart Association recognizes that sodium is an element that is needed for good health. However, too much of this element may upset the natural balance of your system.

So, what are the benefits of cutting salt out of your diet? Aside from reducing your blood pressure and reducing inflammation, there are numerous benefits of a low sodium diet that have a lot to do with how you feel on your daily life.

A salt free diet for weight loss is recommended, but not strictly necessary as long as you can commit to lowering your intake of sodium from your daily meals.

Small changes such as adding more fruits and vegetables to your plates, avoiding processed foods and swapping out your salt shaker for a mix of herbs and spices will help you make the cut of sodium.

Other quick benefits of cutting salt out of your diet is that it will improve the way certain medications work. Antihypertensives, for example, work better when there is a lower amount of sodium in your system, thus acting faster in controlling your blood pressure.

In addition to these factors, other benefits of a low sodium diet include:

Revitalization of your taste buds: salt tends to blunt your taste buds, not allowing you to experience the full explosion of flavors from your meals.
Reduced risk of suffering from stomach cancer, kidney and intestinal diseases.
Inflammation and/or feeling bloated: because higher levels of salt create water retention in your system.
Better absorption of nutrients.
More energy: a less amount of sodium in your body will make you feel more active and with more strength.
Better bone health: excess of salt slowly destroys the calcium in your bones, thus making you at risk of developing osteoporosis.

All these added benefits of a low sodium diet help your system regain its natural balance, promoting a better level of hydration and promoting fat loss.

So, how can you cut back on salty treats? The answer is playing close attention to what you eat.

In order to keep track of your salt intake, experts recommend choosing wholesome ingredients for your meals, and experimenting with herbs combinations to flavor your meals. A good mix of herbs and spices can easily provide a flavorful experience without the extra sodium.

Whenever possible, avoid pre-packed, frozen and processed meals, as these have a higher content of sodium, and if given the option, choose those that have the specification of no added salt on their ingredients list.

Many health options have already started to take into consideration the low-sodium diets, and actually especially this on their packaging.

When doing your supermarket run, avoid grabbing deep fried foods, chips and processed dips, as these are perfect examples of sodium-packed elements.

Remember that, according to the American Heart Association, the recommended dosage of salt per day for a healthy adult is the equivalent of a teaspoon (2,300 mg of sodium), and half of that for those that already engage in a low-sodium diet.

Finally, before you engage in this practice, talk to your Doctor first. An expert will be able to evaluate your health and help you understand what the right amount will be for your particular case.