Salt is made up of a chemical compound made up of sodium and chloride.
Photo via The List
Sodium is a mineral essential for optimal muscle and nerve function, and together with chloride, it also helps your body to maintain proper water and mineral balance.
But despite its essential functions, too much salt can be detrimental to your health.
According to Healthline, this is what too much salt can do to your body…
#1 Water retention
You may notice that you feel more bloated or puffy than usual. This happens because your kidneys wish to maintain a specific sodium-to-water ratio in your body, so, your kidney will hold extra water to compensate for the extra sodium you consumed.
#2 Rise in blood pressure
Food that contains a lot of salt could cause a larger volume of blood to flow through your blood vessels and arteries. This may result in a temporary rise in blood pressure.
#3 Intense thirst
Do you ever feel thirsty or does your mouth feel very dry after eating a salty snack or a high-sodium meal? This is another way that your body tries to correct the sodium-to-water ratio... by encouraging you to drink more water!
Failing to consume fluids after eating high amounts of salt may cause your body’s sodium levels to rise above a safe level.
Photo via Getty Images
Eating too much salt can have a range of effects. In the short term, it may cause bloating, severe thirst, and a temporary rise in blood pressure, while in severe cases, it may also lead to hypernatremia, which, if left untreated, can be fatal.
In the long-term, high salt diets may cause a rise in blood pressure and increase the risk of stomach cancer, heart disease, and premature death.
Stay hydrated and take care of yourself, guys!
By: Aishah Akashah Ahadiat
