To make a general statement about “salt” would not be wise – as there are many types of salt! It is vital to first draw the distinction between processed or refined salt and natural or unrefined salt.
Refined salt, commonly referred to as “table salt,” is the one lurking inside most restaurants and packaged foods. It is heavily processed leaving it stripped of beneficial minerals and coated with chemical bleaching and anticaking agents so that it gleams white and pours easily without clumping together. Often, this processed sodium chloride compound is also fortified with synthetic iodine and possibly even MSG and aluminum derivatives. This chemical-laden form of iodized table salt burdens the body, especially the kidneys, and can lead to water retention and high blood pressure.
Unrefined, or natural salt, however, is in its pure, whole state offering major and trace minerals which support digestion and nutrient absorption (specifically hydrochloric acid production in the stomach as well as the necessary buffering function to protect the stomach lining), healthy pH balance of body fluids, electrolyte balance (preventing muscle cramping or weakness), deep sleep, cellular hydration, regulation of blood pressure, as well as proper neurological and cardiac function.
I highly recommend finding a locally-sourced, unrefined salt and making that the only salt you use! For those of us in the United States, Real Salt is an excellent brand as the salt is unrefined and mined from an ancient sea bed in Redmond, Utah, which is free of modern-day pollutants and contamination. For those abroad, Celtic Sea Salt and Himalayan Pink Salt are great sources. I would love to hear about other sources of unprocessed salt that you might find and I encourage you to reach out and share them so that the worldwide wellness community we create here can benefit from our collective efforts, knowledge, and wisdom.
Switching the salt you use is a simple first step toward a healthier life.
Wishing everyone blessings of good health always!
Dr. Avaness