The “probable substitute” of salt to reduce blood pressure

O have you alerted to high blood pressure? Reduce the amount of salt in daily feeding may be one of the first steps to take. However, this does not mean that you have to give up the taste of your meals.

According to some doctors to Very Well Health, it is possible to reduce salt consumption without abdicating the refined flavors.

These experts point out common alternatives and an unlikely one that “provides a lot of flavor while reducing the risk of heart disease and stroke”.

Though there are the so-called “light” substitutes and “low-sody”, that is, low sodium salt formulas, which mix potassium chloride with sodium chloride to achieve a taste closer to traditional cooking salt, these experts reinforce the preference for other types of substitutes.

Strengthening spices in food is the key to gradually starting to forget the use of salt. Meet the unlikely ingredient that can help in this process.

Algae

“ The algae are rich in potassium chloride and poor in sodium chloride, which in itself can add an apparently salty flavor to the food. The type of roasted nori algae can add a distinctly Asian note to rice, while fresh wakame can enhance and deepen the flavor of soups and fish”, they suggest.

In addition, they clarify that algae also contain plant polysaccharides that bind to sodium and “help remove it from the body through urine, reducing water retention that can contribute to high pressure”.

Other salt substitutes

Vinegar: Often we end up seasoning salads and other meals with both salt and vinegar. However, this ingredient alone can serve as an “excellent liquid substitute for salt”.

In addition to adding acidity, vinegar also gives extra shine to food. Some types of vinegar, such as balsamic, can also enhance flavors.

Citrus fruit: There are no options, from lime to lemons and oranges. Along with this, they always combine well, either with a ribs in the oven or with a grilled fish or pan in the frying pan.

In addition to flavor, these fruits contain plant compounds such as eriocythrin and hesperidine, which “act as vasodilators, expanding blood vessels to help reduce blood pressure.”.

Fresh or dried herbs: Oregano, thyme, rosemary, basil, parsley, mint, chives and among many other options that can help to finish salad sauces, hot dishes or even soups. 

Strengthening your dishes with spices, garlic and onions can also significantly improve both the taste and the quality of food.