Three simple ways to curb your salt cravings and live longer
Photo: How to add less salt to food (freepik.com)
Why do we love salty food so much? The answer lies in our evolution. In ancient times, a lack of calories and sodium was a deadly danger, so those with a strong craving for salty and calorie-dense foods survived and passed on their genes to future generations.
Ukrainian trainer and nutritionist Viktor Mandziak on Facebook shares tips on how to consume less salt.
But the modern world has changed everything. Today, salt is in every dish. It not only adds flavor but also acts as a preservative, ensuring the longevity of food products. That’s why favorite foods like sausages, chips, and canned goods are often "salt with meat," rather than the other way around.
Is it possible to stop craving salty food?
Scientists have proven that taste preferences are habits that can be changed.
Adaptation to salt: In experiments, participants were given overly salted dishes, and over time, they started to enjoy the taste more.
Unlearning salt cravings: People were put on a low-salt diet for 5 months. The result? They began to enjoy less salty food.
New preferences: Participants were given unsalted bread to eat as much as they wanted. Initially, they ate little, but gradually they started to eat more as they began to like the taste.
How to reduce salt intake:
- Eat fewer ultra-processed foods: Avoid sausages, chips, and canned goods.
- Don’t over-salt dishes: Over time, your taste buds will adapt to less salt.
- Cook your own meals: Control the amount of salt in your dishes.
Reducing salt in your diet improves heart health and lowers the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Most importantly, your body won’t protest, but will only thank you for the changes.
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This material is for informational purposes only and should not be used for medical diagnosis or self-treatment. Our goal is to provide readers with accurate information about symptoms, causes, and methods of detecting diseases. RBС-Ukraine is not responsible for any diagnoses that readers may make based on materials from the resource. We do not recommend self-treatment and advise consulting a doctor in case of any health concerns.
