Many people think sea salt is a healthy alternative to table salt. While the concept may make sense, they will be surprised to find out that chemically speaking, sea salt and table salt are essentially the same.
Here is a comparison of sea salt vs. table salt:
Sea Salt:
- About 97 percent sodium chloride
- Obtained from evaporated sea water
- Minimally processed
- Large grain size
Table Salt:
- About 97 percent sodium chloride
- Mined from underground salt deposits
- Slightly more processed than sea salt
- Slightly more salt per teaspoon due to smaller grain size
- Additive to prevent clumping in minimal amounts
On average, most adults need between 1,500 and 2,300 mg of sodium a day. Individuals with high blood pressure should aim for a lower sodium intake. Switching from table salt to sea salt will not help in reducing sodium intake. Reducing the amount of processed foods in one’s diet will help reduce sodium intake. Using herbs and spices, over table salt, when preparing foods can also make a dramatic difference in the amount of sodium you intake. Also read the labels on the new “gourmet” salts you see since sodium and mineral content can vary.
If you are an active athlete, you need to make sure that you are taking in enough sodium for your sport. This can vary greatly depending on whether you are a heavy sweater or a light sweater. Also keep in mind that you will need to replace more sodium as the temperatures warm up and you sweat more! There are many products out there that are great electrolyte replacements if you are a heavy sweater. Keep in mind that in rare cases you may even need to use salt tablets in the warmer months! (Many, many prepared foods contain high sodium levels, so getting too much is often the challenge.) Consult your doctor before taking salt tablets.
Julie DuBois, RD 
