Last Updated on July 19, 2023 by Garima Dev Verman
Quick Take
A social media post claims that eating rock salt/kala namak lower blood pressure. After fact-checking, it has been determined that this claim is Mostly False.
The claim
A Facebook account named Arogya Siri posted an image claiming that Rock salt lowers blood pressure.
We have attached a screenshot of the post below:
Fact Check
What is uncontrolled blood pressure?
Uncontrolled blood pressure refers to a situation where a person’s blood pressure levels remain consistently higher than the recommended or target range, despite attempts to manage and lower it through lifestyle changes, medication, or other treatments. This condition is known as hypertension in medical science.
Hypertension has elevated diastolic blood pressure (BP) ≥ 90 mmHg and/or systolic BP ≥ 140 mmHg. It poses a significant public health concern as it is a major risk factor for heart attack, heart failure, stroke, and other health complications. Some cases of hypertension have specific causes, such as renal vascular disease or excessive hormone secretion. However, the majority are classified as primary or essential hypertension, where the underlying cause is unknown. In most chronic hypertensive individuals, the immediate reason for elevated BP is the excessive narrowing of small arteries known as resistance arteries.
How does salt impact blood pressure?
Eating too much salt can make your blood pressure go up, leading to a condition called hypertension, which can cause heart and blood vessel problems. This happens because salt makes your body hold onto more water, which increases the amount of blood in your vessels. It also messes up the balance of sodium and potassium in your body.
So, to keep your blood pressure healthy, it is good to follow some simple tips. Try to eat less than 5 grams of salt (which is equal to 2 grams of sodium) in a day. Also, it is helpful to avoid eating too many processed foods. Instead, focus on having a balanced diet with a variety of nutritious foods. These steps can help you take care of your blood pressure and overall health.
What is rock salt?
Himalayan salt, also known as rock salt or halite, is obtained from the Khewra Salt Mine in the Punjab region of Pakistan. It is similar to table salt but contains mineral impurities. Rock salt, composed mainly of sodium chloride (NaCl).The composition includes 95-98% sodium chloride, 2-4% polyhalite (containing potassium, calcium, magnesium, sulphur, oxygen, and hydrogen), and trace amounts of fluoride, iodine, and various other minerals.
What is the difference in sodium content between table salt and rock salt?
Rock salt and table salt share similar chemical compositions but vary in other aspects. Rock salt originates from salt mines in Pakistan. But table salt is obtained from evaporated seawater and requires refining.
Besides this, table salt is predominantly contains 99% NaCl. But Himalayan salt contains about 98% NaCl and additional trace minerals and elements, giving it a slightly different taste.
Is it possible for rock salt to have a blood pressure-lowering effect?
The answer is uncertain. There is not enough scientific evidence to confirm that eating rock salt or kala namak lowers blood pressure. From the previous questions it is quite evidence that the primary component of both rock salt and common table salt is sodium chloride, and excessive sodium intake can cause high blood pressure (hypertension) in some individuals. High sodium consumption can also increase in blood volume and put strain on the cardiovascular system.
Another 2022 study also supports this outcome, as it showed no significant differences in blood pressure and urinary sodium concentration between Himalayan salt and table salt.
However, this study asks for more research to reach a conclusion. At the same time, we found another research that supports the claim. This study revealed that the Himalayan salt group (600 participants) showed significant reductions in blood pressure compared to the table salt group (570 participants). Systolic blood pressure decreased by 6 to 8 mmHg, and diastolic blood pressure decreased by 3 to 5 mmHg. The Himalayan salt group also had improved cardiac function and heart rate variability. However, we need more research, including randomized controlled trials, to confirm these findings and understand the causal relationship.
According to Dietician Kamana Chauhan “Rock salt is a known cooling spice in Ayurveda that has digestive and healing properties. A diet high in sodium can cause high blood pressure. Excess sodium can increase water retention in the body. This leads to a higher blood volume and puts more strain on the heart, resulting in elevated blood pressure. The recommended daily sodium intake is 6g. But for individuals with high blood pressure, it is around 3.75g. Rock salt has fewer additives compared to common table salt, as it undergoes minimal processing. This makes rock salt a healthier option, as it does not contain additives like Aluminium silicate, potassium iodate, or caking agents. However, people should still consume it in moderation for optimal health benefits.”
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