Raw salt, in excess, can be harmful. While salt is essential for bodily functions like electrolyte balance and nerve function, consuming too much raw salt can lead to several health problems.
Potential Health Risks of Excessive Raw Salt Consumption:
- Dehydration: Excess sodium reduces the kidneys' ability to remove water, increasing blood volume and potentially causing dehydration.
- High Blood Pressure: High salt intake is a major contributor to hypertension, increasing the risk of heart disease and stroke.
- Kidney Damage: The kidneys work harder to process excess sodium, potentially leading to long-term damage.
- Stomach Irritation: Large amounts of raw salt can irritate the stomach lining.
It's crucial to understand that the harm comes from excess consumption. The type of salt (raw, sea salt, table salt) plays a less significant role compared to the overall amount consumed. Moderation and a balanced diet are key to reaping the benefits of salt without suffering its negative effects.
The provided sources confirm that excessive salt intake, regardless of whether it is "raw" or processed, poses significant health risks. One source even clarifies that while unprocessed salt may contain more minerals, excessive consumption remains problematic.
The key takeaway is to consume salt in moderation as part of a healthy, balanced diet.
