We’ve been talking a lot about sugar intake as of late, but salt is another S word that might be on your mind. According to recent research, our heavy dependence on sodium may partially to blame for the more than 1 million cardiovascular-related deaths each year. Published studies have demonstrated how sodium can increase your blood pressure, and while the recommendation is currently at 2.0 grams per day or less, most of us are consuming nearly twice that amount.
Salt or sodium is actually essential to keeping our bodies functioning, it plays a critical role in maintaining fluid balance and blood pressure, transmitting nerve impulses, and helping in muscle contraction/relaxation. Our needs, however, are far out of balance with our intake. We need about 500 milligrams per day to maintain all these functions that’s about 1/4 teaspoon! Yet, as Americans, we are eating on average between 6-8 times that amount on a daily basis. And some restaurant meals have up to ten times that amount in a single entree!
To kick salt to the curb, you’ll want to try natural flavor enhancers that actually increase your ability to taste all the flavors in the dish you’re preparing and consuming. Salt is a flavor enhancer, but if you’re wishing to try a more healthy approach, turn to these flavors to boost your tastebuds and keep your sodium and salt intake in check.
Lemons: Lemon and other acidic ingredients, like vinegars can help bring out the flavors of other aspects of your dish. Just be sure to add a small splash as to not overwhelm.
For Fish: try adding anise, cilantro, dill, parsley, sage or thyme. Any of these herbs will help balance the “fishiniess” of your fish.
For Chicken and other Poultry: Good additions are “homey” flavors including sage, rosemary and thyme. You can also try adding chili pepper and garlic for a more vibrant option.
For vegetables: Most vegetables will do well with most herbs, however a few favorites include dill (on root vegetables), basil and oregano on squash, and garlic, parsley and chives on cruciferous veggies, including cauliflower, broccoli and kale.
With her love of health and writing, Melissa has written for such publications as Shape, Natural Solutions, Yoga Journal, Self and Pilates Style, and has created recipes and food-oriented stories for such publications as Delicious Living and Cooking Light.
- Saving Our Coral Reef One Tube of Sunscreen at a Time. - June 28, 2018
- Healing Tonics: 5 Ingredients You Need to Cure All That Ails You. - May 3, 2018
- Is it Addiction? 4 Surprising Culprits Behind Your Gnawing Sugar Cravings. - April 20, 2018