Low Salt Diet
A low salt diet should be a top priority on everyone’s list. Never buy foods that are salted and steer clear of processed foods at all costs. Too much salt can increase cholesterol levels and put a strain on the circulatory system as well as the kidneys. Find healthy alternatives for seasoning meat and potatoes such as salt-free toppings, spices, dressings and herbs.

A diet low in salt means that sodium levels will be decreased and this is good news all around. Some people consider a salt water flush when it comes to weight loss because too much salt can make it difficult to lose weight. The Internet is full of low salt diet meal plans so take the time to do some research and you will be pleasantly surprised by what you find.

Sea salt is an alternative to table salt that is showing promise to the health of those who need a low salt diet. Sea salt is created from the “natural evaporation of ocean water.” Sea salt is 98% sodium chloride as compared to regular table salt, which is 99.9% sodium chloride. The remaining 2% of sea salt is made up of trace minerals such as iodine, iron, magnesium and sulphur. Sea salt does not have any extra sugar in it and neither does it has potassium iodide or any anti-caking properties, unlike table salt, which has all of these things. Many people believe that sea salt is more tasty than table salt although it tastes less salty in flavour and tends to be more expensive to buy.

For those who need to subscribe to a low salt diet, not just during the holidays but all year long, look to these healthy foods to keep you on the right track-salmon, soy, green vegetables, berries and whole grains. Salmon is an excellent substitute for meat as it is a terrific source of omega-3 fatty acids and protein. Consuming salmon regularly helps to lower the levels of blood cholesterol. Soy comes from soybeans and soy contains high quantities of protein as well as many minerals such as calcium, magnesium, zinc, phosphorus and B vitamins, fiber, and omega-3 fatty acids. Green beans, kale, broccoli, bok choy, and asparagus as these vegetables are full of vitamins A and C, not to mention calcium, iron and phytonutrients. Berries are full of vitamin C, phytonutrients, folate and fiber. Whole grains are full of B vitamins, as well as vitamin E, iron, magnesium and fiber. Whole grains are also choked full of antioxidants and are very low in salt.