Not Only for Seasoning, Salt Has Some Health Benefits

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Salt is often associated with an increased risk of various diseases when consumed excessively. However, when consumed in amounts according to recommendations, salt also has several health benefits. The sodium and iodine content in it play an important role in maintaining the body's fluid balance, supporting organ function, and even aiding in the production of thyroid hormones.

As quoted by the official Alodokter website, here are some health benefits of salt:

1. Helps maintain thyroid hormone production

The iodine content in salt plays an important role in the formation of thyroid hormones. Iodine deficiency can lead to decreased production of thyroid hormones, which can result in disorders such as thyroid gland enlargement, constipation, easy fatigue, and difficulty concentrating.

2. Helps prevent low blood pressure

Consuming an adequate amount of salt can help maintain normal blood pressure and prevent hypotension. Low blood pressure can cause symptoms such as dizziness, nausea, blurred vision, and even fainting. However, salt consumption still needs to be limited according to recommendations to avoid increasing the risk of hypertension.

3. Maintaining body fluid balance

The sodium contained in salt functions to maintain fluid balance in the body. Adequate sodium intake helps the body retain fluids, thereby reducing the risk of dehydration.

4. Helping to meet the needs of cystic fibrosis patients

Cystic fibrosis patients tend to lose more salt and fluids thru sweat. Therefore, they generally require higher salt and fluid intake as recommended by the doctor to help prevent dehydration.

5. Supporting nerve and muscle function

The sodium content in salt plays an important role in maintaining nerve and muscle function. This mineral helps in the transmission of nerve impulses and supports optimal muscle performance.

6. Supporting fetal and child brain development

Adequate iodine intake during pregnancy is important to support fetal brain development. Iodine deficiency can increase the risk of growth and brain development disorders in children.

7. Helps relieve sore throat

Warm salt water can be used as a mouthwash to help relieve a sore throat. This method is known to help reduce discomfort, suppress bacterial growth, and decrease swelling in the throat.

8. Helps alleviate gum inflammation

Gargling with salt water can also help reduce pain from gum inflammation while maintaining oral hygiene. This method can complement dental and oral health care.

9. Helps remove dead skin cells

In addition to being consumed, salt can also be used as a natural exfoliant. Its coarse texture can help remove dead skin cells and dirt from the skin's surface when used as a body scrub.

Although it has various benefits, salt consumption still needs to be limited according to recommendations. The Ministry of Health recommends a salt intake of no more than about one teaspoon or the equivalent of 5 grams per day to help reduce the risk of hypertension and cardiovascular diseases.