Redmond Real Salt
Also known as: Redmond Real Salt, Real Salt, natural sea salt, unrefined sea salt, Sodium Chloride (Natural Sea Salt)
Overview
Redmond Real Salt is an unrefined natural sea salt primarily composed of sodium chloride (NaCl), along with naturally occurring trace minerals such as magnesium, calcium, and potassium. It is harvested from ancient salt deposits in Utah, USA, and is distinguished by its lack of additives or anti-caking agents. Primarily used as a dietary salt alternative to refined table salt, it is purported to offer a more natural mineral profile. While specific research on Redmond Real Salt is limited, general research on natural sea salts suggests potential differences in health effects compared to refined salts. Most evidence comes from animal studies, with human data being scarce. It falls under the category of a mineral supplement, serving as a natural dietary sodium source.
Benefits
Animal studies, particularly in Dahl salt-sensitive rats, indicate that natural sea salt consumption may induce less hypertension compared to refined salt. For instance, studies showed significantly lower systolic and diastolic blood pressure in rats fed natural sea salt after 15 weeks (p < 0.05). Additionally, natural sea salt may lead to less kidney damage and better cardiac morphology in hypertensive rat models. While these findings suggest a potentially clinically relevant difference in hypertension risk, human data are currently lacking. The evidence is primarily from animal models of salt-sensitive hypertension, and no high-quality randomized controlled trials (RCTs) specifically on Redmond Real Salt have been identified in humans.
How it works
The proposed mechanism for natural sea salt's potentially lower hypertension-inducing effect is linked to its unique mineral composition and potentially different sodium bioavailability compared to refined salt. This may influence the activity of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system and overall vascular function. Effects have been observed on the cardiovascular system, impacting blood pressure and cardiac morphology, as well as on the renal system, affecting glomerulosclerosis. While specific molecular targets are not fully elucidated, possible modulation of plasma renin and aldosterone levels and reduced kidney pathology have been suggested. Detailed pharmacokinetics regarding absorption and bioavailability due to its mineral content are not well studied.
Side effects
Natural sea salt is generally considered safe as a dietary sodium source when consumed within recommended limits. The primary concern, common to all forms of salt, is that excessive sodium intake can lead to hypertension and increased cardiovascular risk. There are no specific uncommon or rare side effects reported for natural sea salt itself. Individuals with pre-existing conditions such as salt-sensitive hypertension or cardiovascular disease should exercise caution and monitor their sodium intake, regardless of the type of salt used. Sodium intake can also interact with certain medications, particularly antihypertensive drugs. Limited data exist for special populations, so caution is advised for individuals with hypertension or impaired renal function.
Dosage
There is no established minimum effective dose for Redmond Real Salt, as it is primarily used as a dietary sodium source. General dietary guidelines for sodium intake, typically less than 2,300 mg of sodium per day, should be followed. Redmond Real Salt can replace refined table salt on a 1:1 basis by weight in culinary applications, though its sodium content per volume might vary slightly. The maximum safe dose aligns with general sodium intake guidelines to mitigate the risk of hypertension and cardiovascular issues. There are no specific timing considerations, as it is used as a salt substitute in food preparation. It is available as granular salt for culinary use, and while its mineral content may influence absorption, this has not been well quantified.
FAQs
Is Redmond Real Salt healthier than regular table salt?
Animal studies suggest natural sea salt may induce less hypertension than refined salt, but human evidence is lacking. Overall sodium intake is the primary factor for health.
Can it prevent high blood pressure?
It may have a lower hypertensive effect in salt-sensitive animal models, but managing overall sodium intake remains the most critical factor for blood pressure control.
Is it safe for hypertensive patients?
Sodium intake should be limited regardless of salt type. Hypertensive patients should consult their healthcare provider regarding appropriate sodium intake and salt choices.
Does it contain iodine?
Typically, natural sea salts like Redmond Real Salt do not contain added iodine, unlike many iodized table salts. If iodine is a concern, check the product label.
Does the mineral content provide significant health benefits?
While Redmond Real Salt contains trace minerals, they are present in small amounts and are unlikely to provide substantial nutritional benefits compared to other dietary sources.
Research Sources
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5328355/ – This animal study on Dahl salt-sensitive rats compared natural sea salt to refined salt over 15 weeks. It found that natural sea salt led to significantly lower systolic and diastolic blood pressure and less kidney damage, suggesting a potentially lower hypertensive effect.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31245918/ – This systematic review assessed the relationship between salt intake and health outcomes. It confirmed a positive association between salt intake and blood pressure but highlighted the scarcity of high-quality human studies differentiating between various salt types.
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4919532/ – This study focused on long-term human salt balance, emphasizing the importance of balanced sodium, chloride, and potassium intake for cardiovascular health. While not specifically studying natural sea salt, it underscores the broader need for mineral balance in dietary salt consumption.
Supplements Containing Redmond Real Salt
RE-LYTE HYDRATION¹ MANGO
RE-LYTE®
LIT Powder Premium Cacao + Superfood Blend
CHOQ
ENERGY HONEY
HNY+
HYDRATE Lemon Lime
Laird Superfood®
HYDRATE Naturally Flavored WILD BERRY Electrolyte Powder
LTH®
Re-Lyte Hydration Watermelon Lime
Redmond Minerals, Inc.