Many in the scientific field believe that eating salty foods makes you thirstier. But a new study finds a high salt diet may actually keep you hydrated.
It could also lead to feeling hungrier and eating more.
Ten Russian cosmonauts in a flight simulation program lived in controlled environments for 205 days. Every aspect of their nutrition, including their water and salt intake was measured.
They started off with 12 grams of salt each day that was gradually reduced to 6 grams.
Researchers reported when the men were on a high salt diet, they drank less water, but felt hungrier despite getting the same amount of calories everyday. The study had similar results in the lab, with mice on high-salt diets eating more than the mice on low-salt diets.
More research is needed to better understand the connection between high salt and weight gain. But obesity has been on the rise and many Americans do eat more sodium than they should.
The Dietary Guidelines recommends you consume less than 2,300 mg per day, however many of you are eating more than 3,400 mg per day.
It’s time you keep a proper eye on sodium levels in your foods.The majority of added salt doesn’t come from your salt shaker, but from processed foods, fast foods and restaurant meals.
Here are my prescriptions for cutting back:
- Eat less processed, prepackaged foods and buy products that are marked “low sodium”. Read labels so you know exactly how much salt your foods contain.
- Avoid adding salt to recipes. Instead, try fresh or dried herbs, spices, zest and citrus fruit juice to season and add flavor.
- Drain and rinse all canned vegetables and beans before using as this helps reduce sodium content.
- Make it a priority to eat fresh whole foods. They’re naturally low in sodium and provide a range of healthy nutrients.
High salt intake has been linked to Stomach Cancer and Osteoporosis. It’s also been linked to high blood pressure which can cause heart disease and stroke.
The good news is that studies show when salt is reduced, blood pressure also decreases. Many people rely on salt to improve the flavor of food.
But your taste for salt is acquired, which means you can also learn to enjoy less. Just cut it out gradually and after a few weeks, you won’t miss it
