You just have to take a look at wellness accounts to hear the virtues of the Himalayas of the pink salt. Presented as a superfood, some say that it would help lose weight or fight water retention.
But according to the dietician Anaïs Soize, this idea is “completely false”. Not only does this salt have no burnt-burning effect, but it could on the contrary promote swelling.
No, pink salt does not reduce water retention
The idea that pink salt helps drain water is widespread but unfounded. “”This is false, because the pink salt of the Himalayas is as rich in sodium as another salt“Explains Anaïs Soize. And like all salts containing sodium and chloride, it attracts water into the tissues, which causes retention outside the blood vessels.
In other words, far from deflating, it can worsen the feeling of heavy legs, swollen belly, even cellulite. “”Its richness in chlorine and sodium will attract water not to the blood system, but outside it, therefore in the interstitial fabric ” specifies the dietician. As a result, the slimming effect praised is not only ineffective, but potentially counterproductive.
A salt rich in minerals, but not miraculous
Pink salt is not completely useless. It contains trace elements and minerals, which makes it more complete than classic white salt. But you have to qualify your nutritional interest. “”To be able to meet the needs, it would be necessary to consume it in very large quantities “ Add Anaïs Soize. Which, in practice, would be harmful to cardiovascular health.
However, in particular situations, as in the event of high heat or intense physical activity, it may have a punctual interest. “”If you lose water, you lose salt. If you lose salt, water will be less likely to stay in the system and hydrate properly “ she explains. A pinch of pink salt in a bottle of water could therefore help to better hydrate the organism, especially during periods of strong perspiration.
Finally, his natural absence of iodine may be suitable for certain people following an iodine diet, especially in the event of thyroid problems.
To lose weight, forget pink salt and favor the essentials
The error would be to believe that a salt, as noble as it is, can melt the pounds. “”Balanced diet and sports activity, these are the two components to favor to lose weight “ Recalls Anaïs Soize. And you have to limit salt, whatever it is. The official recommendations are clear: no more than 5 grams of salt per day.
Beyond that, the effects are reversed: retention of accentuated water, high blood pressure, and food imbalance. To lose weight permanently, priority is to a food rebalancing. Fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, few added sugars, and enough fibers must compose your menus.
On the physical activity side, Anaïs Soize recommends “A minimum of 150 to 190 minutes per week to stimulate blood circulation and boost energy expenditure “. And above all, drinking water regularly remains a fundamental lever. No magic salt, therefore, but simple and effective gestures to repeat every day.