Himalayan Pink Salt: The Preferred Choice
Dr. Berg consistently advocates for the use of Himalayan pink salt, citing several key reasons. This salt is mined from ancient salt deposits in the Himalayan mountains, a source formed long before modern environmental pollution. This origin story is a crucial aspect of his recommendation, as it suggests the salt is free from microplastics and other contaminants that can be found in modern sea salts.
Why Himalayan Pink Salt is recommended
Dr. Berg emphasizes the purity and mineral density of Himalayan salt. Unlike common table salt, which is heavily processed and stripped of its natural trace minerals, Himalayan pink salt is minimally refined. Its distinctive pink hue comes from its rich iron content, alongside a spectrum of over 80 trace minerals, including potassium, magnesium, and calcium. These naturally occurring minerals are vital for various bodily functions, from cellular activity to enzymatic reactions.
Key benefits of Himalayan pink salt:
- Replenishes Electrolytes: For those on a ketogenic diet, where the body sheds water and electrolytes, Himalayan salt is crucial for preventing imbalances. A common recommendation from Dr. Berg is to add one to two teaspoons of Himalayan salt to water daily to help combat symptoms like the 'keto flu'.
- Purity and Safety: Mined from a pristine, ancient source, it lacks the microplastics and heavy metals that can contaminate salts harvested from today's oceans.
- Flavor Profile: Its milder, less intense flavor compared to table salt makes it a versatile seasoning that can be used generously without overpowering a dish.
- Antimicrobial Properties: In addition to internal use, Himalayan salt is noted for its antimicrobial properties and can be used in other applications, such as a cleaning solution for piercings.
Celtic Salt as a Quality Alternative
While Himalayan salt is often his primary recommendation, Dr. Berg also identifies Celtic sea salt as a high-quality alternative. Originating from coastal regions like Brittany, France, Celtic salt is harvested through traditional methods, relying on sun and wind evaporation.
Differences and similarities
Celtic salt is characteristically moist and grey, a result of its mineral-rich clay-based beds. While it contains a wide range of minerals, there are some minor differences in its composition compared to Himalayan salt. For example, some sources suggest Celtic salt may have higher magnesium content, while Himalayan salt might contain more potassium. Ultimately, both are considered superior to refined table salt due to their unprocessed nature and mineral content.
Celtic Salt vs. Himalayan Salt Comparison
| Feature | Himalayan Pink Salt | Celtic Sea Salt |
|---|---|---|
| Origin | Ancient, hand-mined from Himalayan mountains | Coastal regions (e.g., France), evaporated seawater |
| Processing | Minimally processed; unrefined | Minimally processed; unrefined |
| Appearance | Distinctive pink hue from iron oxide | Moist, light grey color from mineral-rich clay |
| Mineral Content | Rich in iron, potassium, magnesium, and over 80 trace minerals | Contains calcium and magnesium; slightly different mineral profile |
| Purity | Free of modern pollutants and microplastics | Generally pure, but some sea salts may have microplastic risks |
| Flavor Profile | Milder, less salty, slightly earthy | Moist, with a distinct, briny ocean flavor |
| Primary Uses | Cooking, seasoning, keto electrolyte support | Finishing salt, brining, seasoning |
The Risks of Refined Table Salt
Dr. Berg strongly advises against the consumption of standard table salt. This type of salt is heavily refined and processed, which removes its natural trace minerals. Additionally, table salt often contains anti-caking agents, such as sodium aluminum silicate, to prevent clumping. While the iodine added to some table salt is beneficial for thyroid function, its overall composition is considered less desirable than natural, unrefined salts.
The Role of Salt and Electrolytes
Contrary to conventional fear-mongering around sodium, Dr. Berg emphasizes its importance as a vital electrolyte for the body. Sodium is essential for nerve function, muscle contractions, and regulating fluid balance. However, the key lies in the balance between sodium and potassium. A diet heavy in processed foods and low in potassium-rich vegetables can throw this ratio off, leading to fluid retention and other issues.
For those on a ketogenic diet, the body's natural diuretic effect can lead to a significant loss of sodium and other minerals. This is why he stresses the importance of using high-quality salt and even supplements to replenish these electrolytes. This focus on quality and balance is central to Dr. Berg's nutritional philosophy.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when asked what salt does Dr. Berg recommend, the clear answer is high-quality, unprocessed salts like Himalayan pink salt and Celtic sea salt. These are favored for their superior mineral content and lack of modern-day contaminants found in refined table salt or potentially polluted sea salt sources. His recommendation is tied to his broader nutritional principles, which emphasize a balanced electrolyte intake—particularly important for those on a keto diet—and the consumption of pure, whole foods. Choosing an unrefined salt is a simple, yet significant, step towards supporting proper hydration, mineral balance, and overall health. For more on his dietary advice, you can visit his official website.
