Salt Substitutes

Ennielyn

Hi guys,

Does anyone have a healthy substitute for salt? Granted, salt is salt, and nothing can quite mirror its ability to enhance the taste of various foods. However, I am looking for a close 2nd. I've heard about Nosalt, but I'm only concerned that it replaces the sodium with potassium, which might have a cumulative effect, over time, similar to taking potassium supplements. While potassium supplements are sometimes recommended (for people taking some types of potassium-wasting diuretics, for instance), I'm just concerned that this might lead to some sort of electrolyte imbalance, and hyperkalemia (high potassium) is one of the worst of them, as it could lead to (sometimes fatal) cardiac arrhythmia.

So that said, could you please share what other healthier alternatives have worked for you? Thanks so much.

m4ttcheek

Use sea salt. It has a good balance of electrolytes.

laurynwithawhy

I think you're right as far as substituting one bad thing for another. I don't think some artificial salt is the right way to go. Although it would take a ton of Nosalt to lead to a fatal cardiac arrhythmia, and even then there would probably be other extenuating circumstances. Instead of a "salt" substitute try using different spices and flavorings instead. If you absolutely can't live without salt, try sea salt, or sprinkle a bit of flake salt over the very top of your food. More surface area = saltier taste.

Ennielyn

Thanks so much, ladies. I'll try using sea salt for now.

lisabinco

Spices and herbs make all the difference. I use no salt at all. Couldn't get used to the "fake" salt; would rather do without it. Now I season with spices and herbs.
Once your taste buds recover from all the excess saltiness you're used to, you will notice that foods actually taste good again without salt. Then you will really be tasting the food again. It is worth working towards, rather than looking for a potentially harmful substitute.
Just my 2 cents.

m4ttcheek

Do you even need to cut your salt intake? Being too low on salt isn't a good thing

chrisdavey

Do you even need to cut your salt intake? Being too low on salt isn't a good thing

this is what I was thinking.

Sodium and potassium are not "bad" things, they are required micronutrients.

Unless you are absolutely piling the stuff on in every meal I think you are probably worrying about nothing

FWIW I typically use the higher potassium salt if I use salt otherwise I normally spice things up with chilli's and other herbs.

mamosh81

i bought some garlic powder that i use now regular instead of salt even tho i should probably up my salt intake a bit but seasalt is also very good

Ennielyn

Thanks for all your input, ladies.

CLFrancois

I have a salt grinder which helps me use much less salt.
Otherwise other spices help, Mrs. Dash for instance.

servilia

How is sea salt any different sodium wise?