Salt is an essential ingredient in cooking and seasoning, as well in many other practical applications around the house so it stands to reason that it’s important to choose the right type of salt for your needs.
Two of the most popular types of salt are Himalayan salt and sea salt, each with its very own unique characteristics and benefits. Himalayan salt is mined from ancient sea beds in the Himalayan Mountains and is known for its unique pink color and is believed to be one of the purest forms of salt available. Sea salt, on the other hand, is obtained by evaporating seawater and is known for its unique flavor and mineral content.
In this article, I wanted to explore the similarities and differences between Himalayan salt and sea salt, and help you decide which one is better for your needs.
Which Is Better, Himalayan Salt Or Sea Salt?
For culinary and health purposes, Himalayan salt and sea salt have become two of the most beloved types of salt used today. Both are abundant in minerals to help maintain healthy blood pressure levels while providing valuable electrolytes for our bodies.
Himalayan salt is thought to be of superior quality compared to sea salt. This derives from the fact that Himalayan salt is extracted from ancient seabeds, which are assumed to be less contaminated and more mineral-rich than modern-day seas. What’s more, Himalayan salt goes through fewer processing methods so it keeps a higher proportion of its natural minerals intact.
In terms of taste, Himalayan salt is often described as having a more complex and subtle…some would say slightly sweet…flavor than sea salt. This is because it contains a wider variety of minerals, which can give it a slightly different taste depending on the specific mineral content.
In terms of nutritional value, Himalayan salt contains slightly more minerals than sea salt. Himalayan salt has 84 minerals and trace elements, while sea salt typically has around 60-70. Himalayan salt has more minerals such as potassium, magnesium, and calcium, while sea salt has more chloride and sodium.
Why Do We Need Sodium Chloride In Our Diet?
Sodium chloride is an essential nutrient that we need to function. Sodium is a mineral that plays a critical role in maintaining the balance of fluids in our bodies. Chloride helps to balance the acidity of our blood, aids in the digestion of food and helps to maintain the proper balance of fluids in our bodies.
Sodium and chloride work together to perform these important functions. When we consume salt, our bodies absorb sodium and chloride ions, which then help to balance the fluids in our cells and maintain proper nerve and muscle function.
However, too much sodium in our diet can lead to high blood pressure and increase the risk of heart disease and stroke. As such, the American Heart Association recommends that adults should consume no more than 2,300 milligrams (mg) or even better 1,500 mg per day of sodium.
To ensure a healthy intake level it’s important to pay attention to how much salt is present in processed foods as they often have very high levels of sodium – instead focus on whole unprocessed food items for maximum benefit.
What Is Himalayan Salt Best For?
Due to Himalayan salt’s unique flavor, it can be used for a variety of culinary purposes. Himalayan salt is often used as an ingredient in dishes such as soups, stews, and sauces where its mineral content can add complexity and enhance the flavors.
We all love lists…here’s a list of some of the best ways to use Himalayan salt:
- Cooking – Himalayan salt is often used in cooking because of its unique flavor and mineral content. It is believed to have a more complex flavor than traditional table salt and is often used to enhance the taste of dishes.
- Seasoning – Himalayan salt is also a popular seasoning option because of its unique flavor and mineral content. It is often used as a finishing salt, sprinkled on dishes before serving to add a burst of flavor.
- Salt Lamps – Himalayan salt lamps are made with large pieces of Himalayan salt, and they have been reported to offer several health benefits. When heated, these special lamps release negative ions into the atmosphere which purportedly can help purify air quality, decrease stress levels and anxiety, as well as induce better sleep.
- Spa Treatments – Himalayan salt is a well-known treatment used in spa salons and baths for its various health advantages. It’s believed to help cleanse the body, improve skin problems, and relieve muscle pain. Not to mention that it gives your whole body an overall sense of rejuvenation.
- Food Preservation – Not only does Himalayan salt add flavor to your dishes, but it is believed that due to its high mineral content, the salt helps preserve food for extended periods. From curing meats and pickling vegetables, this pink-hued wonder has been utilized in food preservation since ancient times.
Ultimately, Himalayan salt stands out for its distinctive flavor and high mineral content, appealing to chefs and foodies alike. Furthermore, it is also utilized in creative ways such as within lamps and spa treatments or even for preserving foods.
What Is Himalayan Salt Not Good For?
Like any salt, Himalayan salt should not be consumed in excess as it does contain quite a bit of sodium. Excessive levels of sodium can lead to high blood pressure, an increased risk of heart disease and stroke, and water retention.
In addition to overconsumption, here are some other reasons you may want to avoid Himalayan salt:
- High Blood Pressure – Himalayan salt contains the same amount of sodium as regular table salt, which can be problematic for individuals with high blood pressure. Excessive intake of sodium can lead to hypertension and increase the risk of heart disease and stroke.
- Allergies or Sensitivities – Some people may have an allergic or sensitive reaction to Himalayan salt, as they may have to the minerals it contains. If you experience any adverse reactions after consuming Himalayan salt, it’s best to discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional.
- Cost – Himalayan salt can be more expensive than traditional table salt and sea salt. While it is often considered to be of higher quality and purity, some people may not be willing or able to pay the higher price.
- Cooking with High Heat – Himalayan salt is not suitable for high heat cooking such as grilling or frying, because it may lose its minerals and flavor under high temperatures.
- Salt Replacement – While Himalayan salt is a healthier alternative to regular table salt, it still contains high amounts of sodium, so people who are trying to limit their sodium intake should look for other alternatives.
To sum up, Himalayan salt is not suitable for individuals with high blood pressure, allergies or sensitivities to minerals, who are trying to watch their sodium intake, spend less money on cooking ingredients or cook using extreme heat. For any dietary changes you’re considering making, it’s best practice to always consult a healthcare professional first.
What Is Sea Salt Best For?
Considered to be a premium seasoning, sea salt is created by evaporating seawater and has become widely popular for its distinct flavor and mineral-rich properties. Not only does this type of salt enhance the taste of culinary dishes, but it also offers an array of benefits from skincare routines to health remedies.
- Cooking – Sea salt is a popular choice for cooking because of its unique flavor and mineral content. It is believed to have a more complex flavor than traditional table salt and is often used to enhance the taste of dishes.
- Seasoning – Sea salt is also a popular seasoning option because of its unique flavor and mineral content. It is often used as a finishing salt, sprinkled on dishes before serving to add a burst of flavor.
- Cosmetics – Sea salt is used in various cosmetics and skincare products because of its believed ability to exfoliate and detoxify the skin. It can be used in body scrubs, bath salts, and face masks to improve skin texture and tone.
- Baths and Soaks – Sea salt is also used in bath and soak treatments, such as Epsom salt baths, to help detoxify the body, ease muscle pain and improve skin conditions.
- Food Preservation – Sea salt is also used in food preservation, such as curing meats and pickling vegetables. The salt’s high mineral content is believed to help preserve food for longer periods.
Sea salt has a distinctive flavor and high mineral content which makes it perfect for flavoring dishes. It is also used in cosmetics creation, bath maintenance, food preservation processes, and other unique methods of use.
What Is Sea Salt Not Good For?
For those looking to add a bit of flavor and minerals to their dishes, sea salt is an ideal option. However, there are some situations when another type of salt may be more suitable…so make sure you do your research before deciding if sea salt should be part of your recipe.
- High Blood Pressure – Consuming too much sea salt can have dire consequences for those with hypertension, as it contains the same amount of sodium as regular table salt. Excessive consumption of sodium-rich foods leads to an elevated blood pressure level and increases one’s risk of suffering from cardiac issues or a stroke.
- Allergies or Sensitivities – Consuming sea salt may cause an allergic or sensitive reaction to the minerals found within it, in much the same way that Himalayan salt might. If you experience any negative side effects after consuming sea salt, cease use immediately and consult a healthcare professional for further advice.
- Cost – Although more costly than traditional table salt, certain sea salts are worth the expense due to their superior quality and origin. Prices depend upon these factors, so be sure to assess them before making a decision.
- Cooking with High Heat – Grilling or frying with sea salt is not recommended, as its minerals and flavor could be significantly diminished when exposed to high heat.
- Salt Replacement – Although sea salt is a more beneficial choice than regular table salt, it still contains elevated sodium levels. Therefore, those who are keeping their sodium consumption to a minimum should consider other options instead.
For those with high blood pressure, allergies or sensitivities to minerals, high heat cooking habits, or wanting to limit their sodium intake, sea salt is not the best choice. Before making any alterations in your dietary regimen, it’s highly advised that you consult a medical professional.
Final Thoughts
When it comes to Himalayan salt vs sea salt, both have unique and beneficial properties that can be used in a variety of ways. Himalayan salt is a naturally occurring mineral salt found in the Himalayas that is believed to contain several essential minerals. It is often used in cooking, skincare routines, and even decorative pieces.
Sea salt is a type of seasoning option because of its unique flavor and mineral content. It is often used as a finishing salt, sprinkled on dishes before serving to add a burst of flavor, and used in cosmetics and skincare products, bath soaks, and food preservation processes.
Ultimately, the decision between Himalayan salt and sea salt depends on your individual needs and preferences. Himalayan salt is renowned for its healing properties, whereas sea salt is generally considered a more affordable option with a unique flavor. Consider the pros and cons of each before deciding which one to use.