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Salt is not just an important ingredient in cooking, it is also one of the most widely used flavouring agents for food. As one explores the world of salts with a closer look, it isn’t surprising to find that there are more than just a handful of fascinating varieties that we use often. Unique in their form, composition and flavour, different salts also possess different kinds of health benefits due to the nutritional value that they possess. Here’s a quick overview of some of the better-known salts and the health benefits they offer.
Table Salt
Being the most common type of salt, primarily composed of sodium chloride, table salt is often fortified with iodine to prevent iodine deficiency. The sodium present in this salt, helps regulate fluid balance and nerve function in the body. Iodized table salt also contributes to thyroid health and prevents goitre. However, excessive consumption of table salt is associated with an increased risk of high blood pressure, heart diseases or strokes, and hence, moderation is key.
Sea Salt
Sea salt is obtained by evaporating seawater and contains various minerals and trace elements as a result. This type of salt may contain small amounts of minerals like magnesium, calcium, and potassium, which are beneficial for health as well as overall well-being. Since it is typically less processed than table salt, sea salt tends to retain some natural minerals.
Himalayan Pink Salt
Mined from the Punjab region of Pakistan and is known for its distinctive pink colour, Himalayan pink salt contains trace minerals such as iron, potassium, and magnesium. Some sources also claim that Himalayan salt has a lower sodium content per serving compared to table salt, however, the difference is negligible.
Image Credits: Jessica Gavin
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Kosher Salt
Kosher salt has a coarse texture and is commonly used in koshering meats or as finishing salt for fried food. The salt typically does not contain additives like iodine or anti-caking agents, making it a more natural option to use more often in cooking or for sprinkling over foodstuff.
Celtic Sea Salt
Celtic sea salt is harvested from the coastal regions of France and retains its moisture. It contains trace minerals such as magnesium, calcium, and potassium, which are highly beneficial to the internal organs and for proper functioning of the nervous system. Celtic salt is known to be one of the oldest known discoveries in the many types of salt.
Epsom Salt
Although not intended for consumption, Epsom salts are often used in baths for relaxation and muscle recovery. Epsom salt can be absorbed through the skin, providing a source of magnesium, which may help with muscle relaxation and stress reduction. It also soothes the nerves and acts as a great agent for stress relief.
