We’ve been advised for years to watch our salt intake, but what does that mean? Is all salt bad? What about the new craze of different kinds of salt being healthier than other salts? While salt has been adding flavor to our food for centuries, it’s gotten a bit too cozy in our modern diets, and it’s time we had a heart-to-heart about it.
Salt: Precious to Precarious
Back in the day, salt was precious. It was used to preserve food, enhance flavors, and even as currency in some cultures. Fast forward to today, and salt is everywhere, lurking in processed foods, takeout meals, and even seemingly innocent snacks. You might not realize it, but that innocent-looking sandwich you picked up at the deli could be packing more salt than a bag of potato chips!
So, what changed? Why has salt gone from being a culinary hero to a potential villain? Well, a big part of it boils down to our modern lifestyle. We’re busier than ever, relying more on convenience foods that are often loaded with sodium to extend shelf life and enhance taste. Plus, our taste buds have become accustomed to the salty punch, leading food manufacturers to ramp up the sodium content to keep us coming back for more.
But here’s the kicker: too much salt can wreak havoc on our health. Sure, a pinch here and there is no biggie, but when we start overdoing it, our bodies start to protest. High salt intake has been linked to a laundry list of health issues, including high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, and even kidney problems. Not exactly the seasoning we signed up for, right?
Now, before you swear off salt forever, hear me out. It’s not all doom and gloom. In fact, there are some pretty sweet benefits to cutting back on the white stuff. For starters, your blood pressure will thank you. By reducing your salt intake, you can help keep those numbers in check and lower your risk of heart disease. Plus, cutting back on salt can also do wonders for your waistline. High-sodium foods often go hand in hand with extra calories and unhealthy fats, so ditching the salt can be a great way to trim down and feel your best.
Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins is key to maintaining overall health and keeping salt intake in check. And don’t forget to read those labels! Choosing fresh, whole foods over processed ones is a great way to slash sodium without sacrificing taste.
Can We Have a Little Flavor?
But we get it, flavor matters. No one wants to eat bland, tasteless food just to be healthy. Luckily, there are plenty of ways to add flavor to your meals without going overboard on the salt. It’s all about getting creative in the kitchen and embracing other herbs, spices, and seasonings.
First up, let’s talk about herbs. Fresh herbs like basil, cilantro, and parsley can add a burst of flavor to just about any dish, from pasta to salads to grilled meats. Not only do they taste amazing, but they also come packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, making them a win-win for your taste buds and your health.
Next, spices are where it’s at. From fiery chili powder to fragrant cinnamon, there’s a whole world of spices waiting to take your cooking to the next level. Experiment with different blends and combinations to find your signature flavor profile, whether you’re whipping up a curry or seasoning a batch of roasted veggies.
And let’s not forget about acidity. A splash of lemon juice or a drizzle of balsamic vinegar can brighten up any dish and add depth of flavor without the need for extra salt. Plus, they can help balance out richer flavors and cut through heavy sauces, giving your meals a fresh, zesty kick.
This is why we love our Dash™ Seasonings. They’re not “low salt,” they are NO salt seasonings you can use on anything. The amount of flavor mixtures Dash™ has to offer means you never have to worry about having the “right” seasoning ever again. Whatever you’re in the mood for, they have it. Plus, because of their plethora of seasoning combinations, it saves you money and space by getting rid of so many single seasonings. (Here’s looking at you, Marjoram we bought for that one recipe!)
Our Cheesy Chicken Stuffed Peppers or Steak and Veggie Kabobs are the perfect recipes to test out the Dash seasoning that most interests you! Give them a try and let us know!
Have you tried Dash seasoning? Hop over to our Facebook page and tell us what your favorites are and how you like to use them!
