Q: Is sea salt better for me than table salt?
A: Although sea salt is sometimes advertised as being more nutritious and lower in sodium, it has about the same mineral comp-osition as table salt. You might notice that sea salt looks different and is a different texture than table salt. This is due to the difference in processing. Sea salt is derived from evaporated sea water and then ground into different-size crystals. Table salt is obtained from a mine and then processed for use in foods. Although sometimes advertised as being healthier than table salt, sea salt does contain sodium and should be used in moderation. The recommendation is to not exceed 2,400 milligrams of sodium per day. That is equivalent to about one teaspoon of table salt. Choose sodium-free seasonings for foods such as herbs and spices. Garlic powder, thyme, basil and onion are all excellent sodium-free choices. Other options include Mrs. Dash or salt substitutes.
— Allison Knott, registered and licensed dietitian/nutritionist, Hamilton Medical Center, Dalton, Ga.
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