Nutrition Notes: Sea Salt

Confusion abounds concerning salt and the different varieties. Table salt, which is highly processed and stripped of essential minerals, is a far cry from its natural state. Standard table salt is highly refined and chemically treated with aluminosilicate of sodium or yellow prussiate of soda as well as various bleach compounds. Chemical additives such as calcium phosphate and magnesium carbonate are also sometimes blended in to prevent clumping. Thes processes create a substance which the human body cannot properly assimilate, thus causing problems with edema and inflamation. Table salt is almost pure sodium chloride along with chemical additives, only containing two trace minerals. This type of salt has been said to cause stroke, high blood pressure, heart attack, kidney disease, and heart failure.

In comparison, natural, unrefined salt is made from either evaporated sea water such as Celtic Sea Salt or, as in the case of Himalayan & Redmond salt, mined from ancient ocean beds. Celtic Sea Salt is harvested off the pristine coast of Brittany, France and contains several trace minerals. Himalayan Salt contains 94 trace elements and is mined from the protected mountains of the Himalaya. Redmond Salt contains over 50 trace minerals and is found in ancient salt deposits deep within the earth in Utah.

Sea salt helps to balance blood sugar levels, maintain healthy energy levels, and supports proper brain cell function. In addition, this natural salt encourages a strong immune system and resistance to disease as well as helping to regulate sleep and relieve allergies through a natural antihistamine action.

In cooking circles, good quality salt is a must. Each natural sea salt has its own color, flavor & character suited to a variety of cooking styles. Celtic, Himalayan, & Redmond salt all have a range of mild sweetness, quite different from the harsh, pronounced flavor of standard table salt. Please note: it is recommended to use natural & unrefined salt at the end of cooking to ensure the delicate flavor & nutrient profile remains intact.

A few resources for further information:

Water & Salt, The Essence of Life

Barbara Hendel, MD and Peter Ferreira

Hunger for Salt

Derek A. Denton

Sea Salt's Hidden Powers

Jacques De Langre

Nutrition Notes: Tomatoes

Tomatoes are an excellent source of vitamin C, lycopene, and vitamin A. Cooking tomatoes and adding a bit of extra virgin olive oil helps to boost the bioavailability of lycopene, a powerful, fat soluble antioxidant. Researchers believe lycopene helps to protect against prostate cancer, cardiovascular disease as well as preventing sunburn and wrinkles.

Nutrition Notes: Coconut Oil

Coconut oil, in its natural, non-hydrogenated form, is an extremely healthy food. This medium chain fatty acid is burned as energy, stimulates metabolism, and supports healthy thyroid function. Forty percent of these fatty acids are in the form of lauric acid which boosts immunity and destroys harmful bacteria and viruses. Coconut oil is also a rich source of caprylic acid which is anti-fungal, thus helping with candida yeast overgrowth.