She Never Knew Why She Craved Salty Things Over Sweet, Until She Discovered This...

by Shaylynn Totolo 4/20/2016

Before you reach for that bag of potato chips, have you ever wondered why you crave salt over sweet? Turns out, it's not just because salty foods like pizza, chips, and packaged meals are delicious!

The Study

A new study at University of Edinburgh/BHF Centre for Cardiovascular Science has shed a light on why some people crave those salty treats, even when they know and understand how harmful they are to our bodies.

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How It Works

By removing a certain gene in mice, a gene which is linked to high blood pressure in humans, the mice developed an increased appetite for salt. In fact, they drank nearly three times the amount of saltwater than the unmodified mice. In turn, increasing their blood pressure.

Once the saltwater was removed, the mice then regulated their blood pressure. Telling us that the gene had an effect on the desire for salt, as well as the ability to regulate blood pressure.

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How Does This Effect Me?

So, what does this mean for us? The team is looking into a drug that can help with that tricky gene, allowing us to better regulate our salt cravings, and our ability to keep our blood pressure at a healthy number.

A photo posted by Muhamad Amirul Badlishah (@amirulbadlishah) on May 5, 2016 at 8:24pm PDT

How Much Is Too Much?

Don't get me wrong, some salt is good. The body needs sodium to survive, but just how much is recommended? About 2,300 milligrams a day (less than one teaspoon), any more than that can lead to high blood pressure and heart disease.

A photo posted by #burgerorder (@burgerorder) on May 7, 2016 at 2:50pm PDT

How To Cut Down On Salt

There are many ways to try and cut down your salt intake, here are just a few...

Watch for sneaky foods like canned beans and deli meats that hide sodium
Add lemon juice or apple cider vinegar to flavor foods instead of salt
Leave the packaged food at the store
Limit processed foods and meats
Cut down on take out

A photo posted by Gansta El Comite Urbano Radio (@calleconclase_gansta) on May 7, 2016 at 11:32am PDT

What's Next?

Just because scientists may have found a link to a certain gene and salt cravings, doesn't mean you can't do everything in your power to keep yourself healthy. Watch your sodium intake and do your best to keep exercising.

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