Decrease Your Salt Cravings With These Tips
By Rachel Carver
Salt is in everything. And processed foods such as potato chips and popcorn make it easy to get the salt we crave.
Salty foods taste good, and they make it hard to stay on track with our nutrition goals.
Can We Combat These Cravings?
As an indispensable electrolyte, salt balances fluid in our cells and helps our muscles function properly. Craving salt can sometimes mean you are dehydrated or need more electrolytes. Fatigue, headaches, or an elevated heart rate usually means you need more water.
You also can crave salt if you routinely consume it. High-sodium diets will make you crave more salt. Limiting packaged and processed foods will decrease your cravings.
Start by drinking water when a salt craving hits. When that doesn't work, reach for these healthier snacks.
Cheese
Cheese comes in a variety of flavors and styles. The protein will also satisfy your hunger and your salt craving.
Start with one ounce of your favorite high-protein cheese such as cheddar or Swiss. Add some fruit to give your snack more fiber. This combination might also satisfy your sweet tooth.
Nuts
Nuts light on the salt can be a great snack. Nuts contain high amounts of omega-3 essential fatty acids. These lower inflammation, support blood sugar control, and improve cognitive function. The dietary fat and protein in nuts will also keep you full longer.
Celery
Celery contains 30-50 milligrams of sodium in one medium stalk, making it one of the higher-sodium vegetables. This healthy snack gives you a crunch and something salty. It also has fiber and many micronutrients.
Beef Jerky
High in protein, beef jerky is a great snack option for when you want salt. Protein keeps you full more than refined carbs such as chips do. Jerky raised in a sustainable manner also packs in the nutrients.
Cottage Cheese
Cottage cheese contains 350 milligrams of salt per serving and lots of protein to keep your hunger in check. Mix it with fruit or use it as a veggie dip. It is also easy to enjoy alone.
Make a plan for when salt cravings strike. Stocking your fridge and pantry with healthy items will keep you on track with your nutrition goals. And, if you do grab some pretzels or popcorn, try to limit the amount you consume.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Wichita , Kans.