Flavor enhancer: Table salt enhances the flavor of food and makes it more palatable.
Preservation: Salt is used for preserving food, helping to prevent spoilage and extend shelf life.
Essential nutrient: Sodium, found in table salt, is an essential nutrient that helps regulate bodily functions like blood pressure and fluid balance.
Cooking and baking: Salt is a key ingredient in various recipes, helping to improve texture and flavor in dishes and baked goods.
Iodized salt: Many table salts are iodized, which helps prevent iodine deficiency and associated health issues, like goiter.
Low cost: Table salt is an affordable and readily available seasoning option.
Versatility: It can be used in a wide range of culinary applications, from savory to sweet dishes.
Disadvantages
High sodium content: Table salt is primarily composed of sodium, and excessive sodium intake can lead to health issues like high blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke.
Water retention: Consuming too much salt can cause the body to retain water, potentially leading to bloating and swelling.
Kidney strain: Over time, a high-sodium diet can strain the kidneys as they work to filter excess sodium from the bloodstream.
Culinary overuse: Excessive use of table salt can lead to overly salty dishes, masking the natural flavors of the food.
Health risks: Excessive salt intake is associated with an increased risk of various health conditions, including cardiovascular diseases and kidney problems.
Iodine deficiency: While iodized salt can prevent iodine deficiency, excessive salt avoidance can lead to iodine deficiency disorders.
