Mumbai . Salt is a mineral made of sodium chloride (NaCl). It is commonly used as spices and preservatives in food. Salt in limited quantity is necessary for our body because it helps in maintaining fluid balance and nerve function. However, consuming too much salt can harm our health. Excessive salt intake is linked to high blood pressure, which increases the risk of heart disease and stroke. It can also contribute to kidney problems, bone loss, fluid retention and affect our thirst and sense of taste.

It is important to consume salt in moderation and be mindful of our sodium intake. Here we list the ways in which consuming too much salt can affect our health. Here we are telling 10 ways in which eating too much salt has a bad effect on our health.

The biggest effect of excessive salt consumption is increase in blood pressure. Salt contains sodium and when we consume too much sodium, water gets accumulated in our body, which increases blood volume and puts pressure on the blood vessels.

2. Increased risk of heart diseases

High blood pressure caused by excessive salt consumption can increase the risk of heart diseases like heart attack, stroke and heart failure.

3. Kidneys may be damaged

Kidneys play a big role in maintaining fluid balance in the body. Consuming too much salt can put pressure on the kidneys and impair their functioning, which can lead to kidney damage over time.

4. Water Retention

Consuming too much salt can cause water to accumulate in the body, leading to swelling and inflammation in many parts of the body, such as hands, feet and ankles.

5. Osteoporosis

Consuming too much salt can increase the excretion of calcium through urine, which can reduce bone density and increase the risk of osteoporosis.

6. Stomach cancer

Studies have shown that high sodium diets may increase the risk of stomach cancer, possibly due to carcinogenic compounds formed during salt digestion.

7. Poor cognitive health

Research shows that high sodium diets can negatively impact cognitive function, including memory and attention, potentially increasing cognitive function and the risk of dementia.

8. Fluid Imbalance

Consuming too much salt can disrupt the fluid balance in the body, leading to dehydration or over-hydration, both of which can have harmful effects on our health.

9. Excessive thirst

Salt acts as a natural thirst stimulant and consuming too much salt can make you thirsty, leading to increased fluid intake, which can increase water balance.

10. Taste spoils the sensation

Regularly eating high sodium can desensitize taste buds over time, making it challenging to appreciate natural flavors and potentially leading to a preference for salty foods.

It is important to keep in mind that salt is an essential mineral which the body needs in large quantities, but consuming it too much can have adverse effects on our health.