Some people have a sweet tooth, while others perfer a more salty taste. While most foods produced today contain high amounts of salt and sugar, it can be difficult to know which is worse to consume.
Salt, in moderation, is an essential to health; it helps the body retain water and can be used to regulate fluid pressure, said Dr. David Pearson, faculty athletics representative and kinesiology professor.
Sugar is also an efficient energy source for the body. Inherently, neither salt nor sugar is harmful and both have a beneficial value at appropriate levels. It is the overuse of these substances that can eventually be toxic to one’s health.
“Our bodies are God’s greatest design and have specific needs,” Pearson said.
Pearson explained that when poor eating becomes the norm, it can raise levels of harmful substances while robbing ourselves of necessary nutrition such as water, calcium and iron.
“Sugar is not always a bad thing. Most of the sugar I consume are natural sugars, since I eat a lot of fruit,” said Sarah Schopick, sophomore English and psychology double major.
Schopick advises to avoid foods that contain high salt and sugar content, especially when they offer no nutritional value. Over-consuming foods that have high levels of salt and sugar can be problematic if consumed frequently. Both can make one bloated, causing the body to feel lethargic and drained, as well as causing oily skin and acne.
“Limit food with high salt level so they are not stable to your diet,” Pearson said. “Also, monitor blood pressure as elevated BP may be a sign of excessive salt intake.”
Keeping track of sugar and salt intake throughout the day will help nourish the body by providing the right amount of needed nutrion, instead of consuming empty snacks. If one does not pay attention to how much is consumed, it can lead to unsatisfactory and even harmful results to one’s body.
