When Is Salt Bad for You?

Eating too much salt can contribute to high blood pressure, which is linked to conditions like heart failure and heart attack, kidney problems, fluid retention, stroke and osteoporosis. You might think this should mean you need to cut out salt completely, but salt is actually an important nutrient for the human body.

What are the symptoms of too much salt?

Eating too much salt can have a range of effects. In the short term, it may cause bloating, severe thirst, and a temporary rise in blood pressure. In severe cases, it may also lead to hypernatremia, which, if left untreated, can be fatal.

When should you not eat salt?

If you consume more than 7 grams of sodium per day and have high blood pressure, it's a good idea to limit your sodium intake. But if you're healthy, the amount of salt you're currently consuming is probably safe.