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Salt Alternatives and Potassium

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Salt alternatives and potassium – in a pinch.

If you are trying to cut back on your sodium intake you don’t have to toss out the salt shaker. Research has shown that salt alternatives may be the answer. They have been shown to stop death from heart disease and reduce blood pressure. But always check first with your physician before you make the switch.

Most alternatives for salt like Nu-Salt, NoSalt and MortonSalt Substitute are made entirely of potassium chloride which tastes similar to table salt but will not raise blood pressure.

Low-sodium or lite salts are a mixture of potassium chloride and sodium chloride and tend to have a bitter taste.

What if I just want to try to minimize my table salt intake?

If you don’t want to try a salt alternative cook with herbs and spices to dress up your meals.

Remember that low-sodium or lite salt substitutes still contain sodium so use that salt shaker sparingly.

Try to stay away from processed foods. They are extremely high in sodium.

Eat more potassium rich foods. Good options include leafy greens, potatoes, dairy food, bananas, beans and citrus fruits. Remember eating healthy is always a better choice than most alternative or substitute products. On top of adding foods high in potassium you are also getting the benefits of other nutrients and vitamins these foods contain.

Why is potassium so important?

K Vitamin or potassium is important to several of our body’s function. It is part of a group of minerals called "electrolytes" that shoot an electrical charge to nerve impulses and makes muscles contract. Potassium keeps your heart beating, your muscles working and the fluids balanced in your body. That’s a big ticket!

Blood pressure can actually be lowered by potassium and many people benefit from the added potassium in salt alternatives. But… these products can also be dangerous for people with kidney disease. If you take a certain hypertension medication, like ACE inhibitors, and potassium sparing diuretics you can also experience serious side effects.

If you feel you are not getting the needed potassium try adding a supplement to your daily diet. Potassium 99 Potassium Amino Acid Chelate Essential for Normal Cell, Nerve and Muscle Function. Although nature made us perfect a little help from our busy lifestyles will do in a pinch. 



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