Know Your Salts

The different kinds of salts are basically divided by the sodium content and how they are found in the natural state.

Rock Salt

Rock salt is usually sold in chunks, so you will probably not find it in the tiny crystallised state. Rock salt is usually grey in colour and comes in the unrefined form. You usually serve it with chaats.

Black Salt or Kala Namak

This is becoming a very popular salt all over the world as it is natural. Also called sea salt, what we call kala namak is manufactured by evaporating sea water. The good thing about this salt is that since it is not refined, you get all the natural nutrients and minerals like iodine.

This salt is available in whitish, pink and black varieties.

Table Salt

This is by far, the most popular type of salt. It is the most refined of all salts and sometimes, some extra chemicals are added to give it the 'free flow' texture.

What's with Iodized Salts?

In the manufacturing process of table salt, iodine is usually lost. Hence, iodised salt is fortified with iodine.

According to Purwa, "Iodine is required by our body to prevent goitre. Goitre is caused by an enlarged thyroid gland."

Too Much?

You might know that too much intake of salt is not good. But here's how it is harmful for your health. Too much salt can cause hypertension, high blood pressure and consequently, cardiac problems.

Apart from that, it can also cause strokes or kidney disease. According to Sushila, you can have about 4-8 grams or about two teaspoons of salt on a daily basis.

However, most people have about 15-16 grams (3-4 teaspoons) of salt on a daily basis. "This is because most Indian families prefer to have pickle, papad or chutney along with their meals," says Sushila.

So even though your family might be having the correct measure of salt in daily meals, the excess salt in pickles and other appetisers messes that balance.