We Are All Salty & Why We Crave It!
Sodium is a vital nutrient. It is…
- A major component of extracellular fluid, and is essential for maintaining the volume of the plasma for cardiovascular health.
- Plays an important role in the nervous system for nerve transmission as well as mechanical movement.
- Chloride ions provided by salt are secreted in the gastric juice as hydrochloric acid (HCL). And HCL is vital to the digestion of food and the destruction of food-borne pathogens in the stomach.
We are meant to have salt. The controversy was how much and the sources. Always look at the bigger picture vs focusing on one component. Most Americans are low on many minerals, thus the salt cravings take over and over consumption can happen. The recommended minimum amount is 1500 mg of salt and suggested amount is 2300 mg. Most Americans are getting 3400 mg of salt, mostly from processed foods and not from quality resources.
If sodium intake drops too low, our metabolism shifts into a sodium-sparing mode. Which is not good for our important heart muscle. Sodium along with potassium are the crucial electrolytes in charge of our heart contracting to pump blood.
Think of your cell walls and how they can cleanse out what is inside the cells. It takes something that can be absorbed to go into the cell and get rid of excess fluids. Our favorite is Himalayan Sea Salt, even adding a pinch once a day in with a glass of water will help your body rebalance to homeostasis.
Salt cravings are a very intense and happen to many people, especially when they are experiencing stress, low electrolytes, not getting enough quality vegetables, and if they are low on minerals.
Emotionally when you crave salt it could mean you are feeling depleted and unsupported in your life.
What to do when these strong cravings arise?
Besides the pinch of sea salt in with a cup of water daily, add celery, olives, tomato, kelp, Himalayan sea salt, coconut water, and other quality electrolyte supplements.
Emotionally add in meditation & breathing exercises & try to take an Epsom Salt bath and light some candles to let your nervous system catch up.
Stay salty & sweet,
Heather Fleming, C.C.N.
Photo by: Dubravko Sorić
