Supplements

The #1 Salt That Should Be in Your Electrolyte Powder

Written by Krista Bugden
Medically Reviewed by Felicia Newell, M.S., RDN

Updated on August 10, 2024

Salt is a nutrient entangled in many controversies and, surprisingly, straight-up lies. Unfortunately, we’re constantly bombarded with the message that “salt is bad” and therefore, we should reduce our intake.

But this notion doesn’t add up for a few reasons…

For one, salt is necessary for healthy blood volume, nerve transmission, and even normal cell function (1). We also need it to stay properly hydrated (water can’t enter the cells of our body without sufficient electrolytes—especially salt).

Second, without enough salt, we can become chronically dehydrated. No wonder 75% of Americans are dehydrated on a regular basis (2)! Dehydration is no joke…it can lead to fatigue, weakness, dizziness, confusion, and much more. In short, it’s a one-way ticket to suboptimal physical and mental functioning.

Knowing this, it’s safe to say that we need salt—and it’s certainly not the villain it was made out to be.

But now the question becomes: What type of salt is best?

Let’s take a look at the two most popular: Himalayan rock salt and sea salt. 

Table Of Contents

Himalayan Salt vs. Sea Salt: What’s the Difference?

The two main contenders for salt include Himalayan rock salt and sea salt—both of which come from all-natural sources. So, what tilted the scale toward the “better salt?”

It primarily has to do with where each salt is from. Sea salt is sourced from the ocean or salt-water lakes. But one major problem stands out with this: microplastics.

Microplastics on a hand with sand and ocean water in the background

Research consistently shows that microplastics are frequently found in marine surface waters (3). And while we don’t know too much about these yet, there’s enough that we do know to raise a few red flags. 

Endocrine-disrupting chemicals, like microplastics, are associated with various life-threatening and chronic diseases like:

  • Cancer
  • Infertility issues
  • Diabetes
  • Obesity
  • Asthma
  • Autoimmune conditions
  • Neurological conditions
  • And more (4)
NativePath Blog Post Image

What’s shocking is that we aren’t even sure how many of these microplastics we consume each week. Some experts claim it could equate to the weight of a credit card (5)!

3 Benefits of Himalayan Salt

“Himalayan salt is a type of rock salt sourced from the Himalayan region of Pakistan, hence the name. The distinctive pink color of Himalayan salt comes from trace minerals, such as iron and magnesium, present in the salt crystals,” says Catherine Gervacio, Registered Dietitian at Living.Fit.

In other words, this salt is mined from what was once a sea long ago. It’s not impacted by pollution, which means it might have a leg-up compared to sea salt. So, let’s take a closer look at why Himalayan salt scores a few more points than any other salt.

1. It Contains Zero Microplastics

The area this salt is derived from was once an ancient sea. This means it’s been untouched by modern pollutants and doesn’t contain microplastics. In turn, Himalayan salt can offer a “healthy” salt without the potential downside that sea salt may have. As more research comes out on microplastics, it seems we are all in agreement that they aren’t good for us.

2. Pink Himalayan Salt Has Tons of Minerals

Compared to sea salt, Himalayan salt hits a slam dunk here. While sea salt contains bits of 72 particles, Himalayan sea salt contains 84 essential minerals and trace elements your body needs. It also has more calcium, potassium, magnesium, and iron (6).

3. It’s Shown to Have Plenty of Health Benefits

Like other salt, but minus the microplastics, Himalayan salt is linked to various health benefits. While salt is often demonized, it’s actually essential for various bodily functions.

The health benefits of Himalayan salt can include:

  • Helps make stomach acid, which aids digestion
  • Supports adrenal function
  • Maintains a healthy immune system
  • Aids in regular muscle and nerve function
  • Keeps us adequately hydrated
  • Helps regulate blood sugar levels 
  • May improve sleep (8, 9, 10)

These are all reasons why its important to find an electrolyte mix that uses Himalyan salt. After all, chugging back water isn’t enough. We also need sufficient electrolytes to keep our body hydrated and functioning at its full potential.

Frequently Asked Questions About Himalayan Salt

Himalayan salt, like other salt, is packed with tons of goodness. It can help with regular digestion, support adrenal gland functioning, aid in sleep, reduce inflammation, and so much more.

Krista Bugden
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Krista Bugden

Krista Bugden is a freelance writer with a BS in Human Kinetics from the University of Ottawa. She spent 5 years working as a kinesiologist, giving her the first-hand experience she needed to write well-researched, scientific, and informative blogs.

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    Medical Disclaimer

    This content is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to provide medical advice or to take the place of such advice or treatment from a personal physician. All readers/viewers of this content are advised to consult their doctors or qualified health professionals regarding specific health questions. Neither Dr. Chad Walding nor the publisher of this content takes responsibility for possible health consequences of any person or persons reading or following the information in this educational content. All viewers of this content, especially those taking prescription or over-the-counter medications, should consult their physicians before beginning any nutrition, supplement, or lifestyle program.

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