Salt is one of the basic ingredients used to improve the flavor of foods and their preparation in kitchens around the world. However, there are different types of salt, including Himalayan salt and regular salt, which differ in their composition, source, and benefits. In this article with the Atara Shop in Saudi Arabia, we will give you a comprehensive overview of Himalayan salt and regular salt, and we will explain the differences between them and what makes each type unique in its own way.
Salt is a chemical compound consisting of sodium and chlorine, and it is one of the most important components of the human diet. Salt is used as a spice to improve the flavor and taste of foods and drinks, and it is considered an essential ingredient in food preparation. There are many types of salt available on the market, but one special type of salt is Himalayan salt.
Himalayan salt
Himalayan salt, also known as pink salt, is a type of natural salt extracted from Himalayan mines in the Himalayas in Asia. This salt is considered one of the purest types of salt available in the world and is completely portable when mined by hand from its natural sources. Himalayan salt is distinguished by its beautiful pink color and natural coarse texture.
Benefits of Himalayan salt:
Himalayan salt is known for its potential health benefits and its rich content of minerals and trace elements. Here are some potential benefits of pink Himalayan salt :
- Balance of body minerals: Himalayan salt contains a variety of minerals and trace elements such as calcium, potassium, magnesium, iron and zinc. These minerals are essential for the health of the body and enhancing its vital functions.
- Regulating the level of fluids in the body: It is believed that coarse Himalayan salt contributes to regulating the level of fluids in the body and fighting swelling and bloating.
- Improving digestive health: Some studies indicate that Himalayan salt can help improve digestive health and enhance the digestive process.
- Supporting mental and psychological health: Himalayan salt is believed to contribute to supporting mental and psychological health, improving mood and feeling calm and relaxed.
Ordinary salt (table salt)
Common salt, also known as table salt , is a common type of salt that is widely used in the preparation of food and drinks. Regular salt is obtained by evaporating water containing sodium and chlorine, leaving behind the salt crystals we are all familiar with. Ordinary salt is characterized by its white color and fine texture.
Benefits of regular salt:
Although regular salt has been used in the kitchen since ancient times, some important points may be overlooked. Here are some potential benefits of regular salt:
- Flavor enhancement: Regular salt is widely used to enhance the flavor of foods and bring out the natural flavors of ingredients.
- Food preservation: Regular salt is also used in the process of drying and salting some foodstuffs as a way to preserve them for long periods.
- Improving digestion: Some cultures believe that eating regular salt contributes to improving digestion and enhancing the digestion process.
The difference between Himalayan salt and regular salt
- Chemical composition: The main difference between Himalayan salt and regular salt is the chemical composition. Regular salt consists of only sodium and chlorine, while Himalayan salt contains a variety of minerals and trace elements such as calcium, potassium, magnesium, iron and zinc.
- Colors and textures: Himalayan salt is characterized by its beautiful pink color and coarse texture, while regular salt is white in color and has a fine texture.
- Flavor and Taste: Because it contains a variety of minerals, Himalayan salt is believed to give foods a richer taste and varied flavor compared to regular salt.
- Uses: Regular salt is widely used in all types of cooking and food preparation, while Himalayan salt is commonly used in culinary preparation and as a nutritional supplement because it contains trace elements.
In the end, Himalayan salt and regular salt share the chemical basis that makes them up, which is sodium and chlorine, but they differ greatly in chemical composition and nutritional content. There are also many types of salt, such as lemon salt , sea salt, and others. Himalayan salt is more natural and pure and contains a range of minerals and trace elements, making it a preferred healthy and nutritional choice for some people. In contrast, regular salt is less expensive, more available, and widely used in everyday cooking. The decision to use Himalayan salt or regular salt depends on each individual's personal priorities and nutritional and health preferences.