How to keep your salt intake in check

For years, you’ve heard about the acute dangers of following a diet that’s high in sodium. Now, much of the attention has shifted to trans fats, carbohydrates, and even high fructose corn syrup. So is too much salt still a problem, or did “they” do a new study and decide salt is actually a cure-all? According to the CDC, 70 percent of U.S. adults eat 2.3 times too much salt, leading to a host of medical problems. A recent study found a link between high salt consumption and early mortality.

Why does your body need some salt?

• Human cells have a large amount of salt, which they require to function.
• Sodium helps your muscles to contract.
• When the body is overheated from exercise or a heat wave, it needs more salt. Just drinking plain water is often not enough. Consuming some salt is critical with rehydration.
• Salt manages the acidity in the body’s blood, helping it to stay balanced.

While salt is vital for several body functions, it is certainly best consumed in moderation. Excessive salt intake can result in several adverse effects:

• High blood pressure can be reduced through a reduction in salt intake, and an increase in potassium.
• Intake of too much salt is especially problematic when the individual also consumes too little potassium
• Salt intake can cause you to lose calcium, which can lead to osteoporosis.
• Edema is water retention that happens when your body drops the amount of water available for you to excrete through urine or perspiration.

Healthier eating habits and choices can lower your salt intake dramatically:

• Don’t be fooled by sea salt which has the same amount of sodium as regular table salt, it simply looks all-natural and less processed.
• When dining at Belgian Waffle Works, consider using our own spice blend instead of salt. We offer our own seasonings at the table, which can also be purchased!
• Avoid processed foods such as canned soups, deli meats, and jarred pasta sauce. Salt acts as a natural preservative and is present in many pre-packaged foods in order to hide the staleness of the meal.
• Sauces such as soy sauce and Worcestershire are very salty and should be used in moderation, or simply chose low-sodium versions.
• During your next meal at Belgian Waffle Works you could consider dropping the French fries in favor of fresh fruit or a tasty salad.
• Choose unsalted butter (although you of course want to watch that butter intake)

With any type of dietary restriction or plan, moderation is always the key. It’s okay to splurge. And when you do, head on over to Belgian Waffle Works. We can accommodate your healthy dietary choices as well as dishes that are tasty and great for special occasions and occasional splurges. Be sure to reward a week or two of good low-salt eating with a treat such as our crisp bacon or specially-seasoned French fries.

The Belgian Waffle Works is a full-service family restaurant featuring 17 original specialty Belgian-style waffles, homemade soups, fresh market salads, gourmet sandwiches, juicy burgers, homemade breads, Espresso, Cappuccino, premium desserts, wine, beer, specialty drinks and more. Belgian Waffle Works’ waffles are made from an exclusive mix, which is available for sale onsite and online. Come join us for breakfast, lunch or dinner. You’ll be glad you did!