People often choose Himalayan salt over table salt primarily for its mineral content.
Mineral Composition Differences
One of the main reasons people opt for pink Himalayan salt is its distinct mineral profile compared to common table salt.
Based on available information, while table salt is primarily sodium chloride (NaCl), pink Himalayan salt contains more calcium, potassium, magnesium, and iron.
Here's a simple comparison of some key minerals often discussed when comparing the two salts:
| Mineral | Pink Himalayan Salt | Table Salt |
|---|---|---|
| Sodium | Present (may be less) | Present (may be more) |
| Calcium | More | Less |
| Potassium | More | Less |
| Magnesium | More | Less |
| Iron | More | Less |
As noted, pink Himalayan salt contains more calcium, potassium, magnesium and iron compared to table salt, which may contain more sodium (6).
Why This Matters to Some
For individuals seeking to incorporate trace minerals into their diet through salt, pink Himalayan salt is often perceived as a more mineral-rich option. While the amounts of these trace minerals are generally very small compared to dietary sources like fruits and vegetables, the presence of these additional elements is a key differentiator cited by those who prefer Himalayan salt.
This difference in composition is the primary factor highlighted when explaining the choice to use Himalayan salt over standard table salt.
