Is Sea Salt Healthier?
Ask the Diva: Is Sea Salt Healthier?
Q. I saw an ad for Campbell’s Soup saying they were now using sea salt instead of regular salt. Does that really make it healthier or is it just hype?
Answer. The advantages of sea salt are mostly aesthetic, not nutritional. Some foodies think that sea salt has a cleaner taste (maybe because it’s not iodized) or a more complex taste (perhaps because of trace minerals it contains). Those extra minerals wouldn’t be enough to make a significant difference nutritionally. Health-wise, the real question is whether the soup contains less sodium, and substituting sea salt for table salt wouldn’t necessarily reduce the sodium content. (See also my episode on sodium and my episode that compares the different kinds of salt.)
About the Author
Monica Reinagel is a board-certified licensed nutritionist, author, and the creator of one of iTunes’ most highly ranked health and fitness podcasts. Her advice is regularly featured on the TODAY show, Dr. Oz, NPR, and in the nation’s leading newspapers, magazines, and websites. Do you have a nutrition question? Call the Nutrition Diva listener line at 443-961-6206. Your question could be featured on the show.
