As nutrition experts often explain, the idea that salt directly causes fat gain is a widespread misconception. Salt is primarily sodium chloride, a mineral essential for maintaining acid-base balance, cellular hydration, and key metabolic functions like muscle contraction and hormone regulation. Both excess and deficiency can disrupt health.
The confusion arises because salt promotes water retention, leading to temporary bloating and a feeling of weight gain. However, this isn't fat or muscle—it's edema, or excess fluid. Reducing salt intake quickly resolves it. The key is identifying hidden salt in processed foods like ready meals, which are loaded with it.
The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends no more than 5 grams of salt per day. Yet, in France, women average 6.7 grams. To comply, minimize prepared foods such as pizzas, crisps, pastries, cheeses, cold cuts, and canned goods. Instead, flavor fresh ingredients with herbs and spices like turmeric, curry, pepper, parsley, and thyme. Simple and effective.
Further reading: The 100 Received Ideas That Prevent You from Feeling Well by Dr. Alexandra Dalu.
