Salt substitutes

Dear Ashley,

A low sodium diet may not only lower your blood pressure but could impact enjoyment of your food as well. Salt substitutes may be a good way to add some flavor back into your meals and provide nutritional options for individuals who are looking to decrease the amount of salt, or sodium, in their eating plan. The human body metabolizes sodium by diluting it with water, meaning, salt causes the body to retain water. If you are someone who is looking to prevent excess water retention, a potassium salt substitute may be a good option. When used as a salt substitute, potassium chloride causes a person to produce saliva and enriches the taste of food (similar to sodium chloride), but without causing water retention.

A word of caution: excess potassium can be taxing for the kidneys. If an individual has a kidney problem or is taking medication that causes potassium retention, this salt substitute probably needs to be avoided. Too much or too little potassium can also cause heart disturbances for people with heart disease. If you are someone who falls into one or both of these categories, consult a health care provider before you decide to use a potassium containing salt substitute. Good luck with the new diet!