While many food manufacturers like to use the word salt and sodium interchangeably, they are very different. Sodium is a naturally occurring mineral that can be found in many natural foods, such as bell peppers, broccoli, carrots, celery, radishes, sweet potatoes, cabbage, mushrooms, onions, and tomatoes.
Sodium is an important electrolyte, that plays a crucial role in enzyme operations, muscle contraction, glucose absorption, heart performance, and nervous system function. The average person requires about 1,500-2,400 milligrams of sodium per day. Sodium helps regulate fluid levels in the human body, by assisting the body in pumping water into the cell.
Sodium helps the brain by keeping the mind sharp and in focus. Without sodium the mind becomes confused and lazy, it helps remove excess carbon dioxide that accumulates in the body, it helps the body absorb glucose across, and it even defends the body against free radicals, that can quicken the aging process of the skin. Sodium also helps to maintain normal contractions of your heart; therefore, it has a vital role in maintaining the blood pressure in your body.
Salt is a crystal-like chemical that is comprised of 40% sodium and 60% chloride, it naturally occurs in the ocean. While salt in moderation is good for the body, because of its sodium content, and for bringing out the flavor of food. Most Americans have a diet of about 75% processed foods, these foods have a very high salt content, things such as pickles, cured meats, processed cheese, soups, and other salty snacks, have contributed to a rise in high blood pressure, kidney disease, and diabetes. In all fairness to salt, it has tremendous value.
Salt is useful in removing stains out of clothing if it is immediately poured on the spot it will absorb the stain. Salt will keep flowers in a vase fresh longer if it is added to the water. Salt added to boiling water will kill weeds that gather up between driveway cracks, it will absorb the odor out of smelly sneakers, it helps a sore throat subside, by rinsing with warm water. And can clean mildew spots. Salt and sodium are necessary for the daily needs of your life, may you choose wisely, as you decide how to use this valuable mineral.
