Sea salt is kosher salt, which is generated by the evaporation off of seawater. It is generally used as a seasoning in baking, cooking, cosmetics, and even for preserving food. It's also known as black salt, sunflower salt, or Okinawan sea salt. Like most mined salt minerals, the production of sea salt dates back to prehistoric times when people first discovered the mineral wealth lying beneath the sea. They were amazed by the white powder that came out of the water.
Different studies have been conducted to determine the mineral content of sea salt minerals. One study reports that sodium chloride makes up over fifty percent of the mineral content. Some other studies indicate that as sodium chloride becomes more refined it reduces the mineral content. The amount of magnesium and calcium is varied, but they are present in varying amounts. Most experts agree that there is a minimum recommended amount for daily consumption, but since no one study can determine exactly how much is safe, the recommended amount is generally set at two pounds per day. That's a lot of salt!
Sea salt does not contain any trace minerals which means we can safely eat much more of this delicious seasoning than regular table salt without worrying about harmful side effects. It's also great for seasoning fish, meats, vegetables, bread, and crackers. It contains trace amounts of magnesium, calcium, potassium, and iron. It also contains trace amounts of niacin, thiamin, pantothenic acid, and folic acid.
The average person consumes approximately two pounds of kosher salt for each year. Two pounds is about the amount for most individuals consume in one year when consuming regular table salt. If you eat plenty of sea salt each year you will be able to keep yourself "healthy" and your body will absorb more nutrients from the sea salt than from regular table salt. In addition to the rich mineral content, sea salt also contains more potassium, magnesium, iron, and calcium than regular table salt and it also contains more sodium than regular table salt.
When it comes to health benefits, there are many and they include reduced blood pressure, less body fat, fewer cardiovascular diseases, less cancer, and more energy. All of these benefits are attributed to the naturally occurring elements found in sea salt. As sea salt comes from natural sources, it is considered a healthier alternative to regular table salt because it contains no chemicals or synthetic ingredients.
One of the main differences between sea salt and regular table salt is its texture. Sea salt tends to be coarse in texture and this helps it to absorb more of the trace minerals in the seawater. It has a very different texture than regular table salt and this is one of its most appealing characteristics. Sea salt tends to be in the form of tiny grains that are sprinkled onto food or eaten with a spoon. The fine grain structure helps it absorb more minerals.
Another difference between sea salt and table salt relates to how it is processed. Sea salt is harvested by using a process called "aeration". It is heated so that the water evaporates faster and the salt crystals are formed. You must use special equipment in order to harvest this salt and you also must store it under high pressure and high temperatures. This process helps to reduce the amount of sodium chloride in the salt and also helps to increase the concentration of trace minerals like potassium and magnesium.
The concentration of trace minerals in sea salt is high. For example, magnesium and potassium have about three times the concentration of sodium chloride in sea salt. This makes sea salt highly beneficial for increasing the levels of trace minerals in your body. Also, sea salt tends to taste better than table salt and it is easier to make sea salt at home.