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Salt History and Health

Is salt bad for your health? Maybe not...

By , About.com Guide

salt, history, health, spice, recipes, receipts

Kosher salt, table salt, and sea salt

© 2008 Peggy Trowbridge Filippone

Salt History

Salt has been used for thousands of years not only as a condiment, but also to preserve foods. Nowadays, we take it for granted as the cheapest condiment, but salt was once considered so valuable, it was used for currency.

It has been considered a fertility symbol, was a key ingredient in magical spells and potions, was used in mummy preservation and religious ceremonies, and was a key component in the development of international trade.

Salt and Health

New studies have health professionals debating over previous theories which claim salt is bad for the heart. Of course, as with most things, the adage "all things in moderation" rings true.

It is an established fact that salt is essential to the body, performing the function of turning carbohydrates to fat, ridding the body of carbon dioxide and is necessary for heart and muscle contractions. Salt is necessary for the body to produce digestive acids, stimulate the liver and helps get rid of gas.

Sea salt and baking soda baths have been used as an effective treatment for radiation exposure. Salt truly is the spice of life when used properly.

More About Salt and Salt Recipes:

Salt Cooking Tips
Salt Varieties and Types
How much salt do you need? Salt Measure Guidelines
Salt History and Health
Salt Recipes
Salt Photo © 2008 Peggy Trowbridge Filippone, licensed to About.com, Inc.

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Herbs & Spices: The Cook's Reference
The Contemporary Encyclopedia of Herbs and Spices: Seasonings for the Global Kitchen
The Spice Lover's Guide to Herbs and Spices
Herb Mixtures & Spicy Blends
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