The Salt Intake: Its Relation to Health & Disease

Salt has played a vital role in shaping civilizations. From ancient Roman roads to African trade, salt was a prized commodity. In fact, the word “salary” comes from “solarium argentum,” the payment Roman soldiers received in salt. This deep historical significance highlights the essential nature of salt in our diets and cultures.

Humans evolved with a natural craving for salt, especially those with primarily vegetarian diets. While salt has medicinal uses like reducing swelling and aiding digestion, excessive intake is harmful.

A high-salt diet increases the risk of high blood pressure, stroke, heart attack, and kidney disease. It disrupts sodium-potassium balance, leading to water retention, which strains blood vessels and kidneys. It also raises protein levels in urine—a key indicator of declining kidney health.