We all know that high consumption of salt is unhealthy. However, many people find it hard to refuse salt as they think food without it is tasteless. But does this belief have a reason?
If salt is used in moderation, it is not harmful for the body. Sodium and chlorine are actually vital substances. However, using too much salt creates a risk of getting heart, blood vessels, kidney diseases or even cancer.
Nutritionists say that usually people consume too much salt simply out of habit. Here are a few tips to help you enjoy healthy and tasty food with less salt.
1. Know how to get started
Reducing the amount of salt can be difficult, if you don’t know how much of it you should consume. The World Health Organization recommends consuming up to 5 grams of salt a day, which is about a teaspoon of it. Remember about it when cooking.
2. Taste your food before adding more salt.
Many of us add salt before eating out of habit. Break this ritual. Try your food without adding anything, first. Maybe you will not want to add anything.
3. Choose products carefully.
Always pay attention to what you put in your shopping cart. Check the labels of your favorite products to know how much salt they contain. Nowadays, manufacturers offer a wide range of products with low salt, so you just need a bit of attention.
4. Enjoy natural taste of food
Do not be afraid that food with a lower amount of salt will not be as tasty. Human taste receptors quickly get used to the changes so once you try using less salt, you will start feeling the real taste of food better and soon you will not have a need of eating salty food.
5. Discover other recipes
A quick search on the Internet will give you a lot of recipes with low salt, which will meet every taste. Choose what you like, improvise and enjoy their delicious food.
6. Discover other natural spices.
Salt is not the only way to flavor your food. Herbs, spices and other natural goods, can easily replace salt. Discover new flavors with different herbs. Don’t be afraid to try.