Salt is often blamed for the adverse effects it has on the body and it is associated with various serious illnesses if it’s consumed in excess. Conversely, as a result of these warnings, there are cases in which this ingredient has been reduced or removed from the diet. This is not a solution, since salt has a lot of benefits for the body if consumed in moderate amounts. Find out how mush salt you should eat daily!
Salt is essential for the body but can cause health problems if you go over the recommended daily allowance. Its amount depends on the age that you have, as well as medical conditions. Healthy adults should not consume more than one teaspoon of salt per day, while children and seniors over 50 years should eat less salt. Also, experts recommend consuming less salt for those suffering from diabetes, kidney disease or if you have high blood pressure.
Children
1-3 years – 2 g
4-6 years – 3 g
7-10 years – 5 g
11- 18 years – 6 g (1 teaspoon)
Adults – 6 g (1 teaspoon)
Adults over 50 years – 1,5 g
Salt not only offers culinary taste to the food but alsohas other benefits for the body. This ingredient stimulates the immune system, strengthening the body against attacks of pathogens, it takes care of the health of the musculoskeletal system by its sodium and calcium content. In addition, the salt plays an important role in the process of digestion and absorption. It activates in the mouth an enzyme called salivary amylase that breaks down starch from cooked (boiled, roasted) foods. It also helps create hydrochloric acid, an important step in the digestive process.
On the list of advantages of consuming salt is added: combating acidity in the body and maintaining skin health and beauty. In addition, this ingredient helps you sleep better and stimulates your metabolism, so it is an ally in the diets.