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Are There Times You Should Eat More Salt?

By Sara Butler

It’s pretty well known that reducing salt intake as you get older is important to your health. The American Heart Association recommends that adults get no more than 2,300 milligrams of salt per day. Not many people are in danger of not getting enough salt in their diets per day since it sneaks its way into foods you may not even know of. There may be times when you should be eating more salt. If you find any of these salty scenarios apply to you, discuss it with a healthcare professional -- even your chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic -- before busting out the salt shaker.

You’re Running a Marathon

If you’re an athlete who engages in marathon-intensity exercise, then you may need more salt. Working out for prolonged periods of time, such as an hour or more, may require a sodium boost. When you sweat a lot, you may drink water to help stay hydrated. But drinking a lot of water doesn’t replace the sodium your body is losing through sweat. If you’re done with a grueling workout or race, make sure to add something salty to your recovery meal.

You Take Certain Medications

Some medications, such as diuretics, can cause mineral imbalances to occur since they increase urine output. But many people are on diuretics due to high blood pressure, which can be aggravated by salt intake. So make sure to talk to your doctor if you’re worried that you’re losing salt due to the medication you’re taking.

You’re Over 80

Some older people need a brain boost that can be provided by increased intake of salt. Low-sodium diets have been found in some studies to impact the functioning of the brain. The studies are still in their preliminary stages, so don’t go crazy on the salt if you’re a senior. But keep an eye on information being released because eating a bit more sodium may be good for your brain after a certain age -- if your doctor agrees, of course.

You Live in a Hot Climate

Sweating causes you to lose salt, so if you live in a muggy and hot environment, then it stands to reason you can suffer from a sodium deficiency after sweating a lot. If you develop a headache, crazy thirst, or light-headedness after sweating a lot, then you may need some sodium to help relieve your symptoms.

You have to be careful with your salt intake. Your body has a balance to maintain, but getting enough is as important as not getting too much!

To learn more about your health and wellness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Pasadena, Tex.

 

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