Celtic Sea Salt; its Benefits & How To Use It
Salt is a fundamental component of our diet, crucial for maintaining proper bodily functions and enhancing the flavour of our food. While table Salt is widely used, its processed nature and potential health drawbacks have led many people to seek healthier alternatives. One such alternative (arguably the best alternative) is Celtic Sea Salt, a unique and natural Salt harvested from the pristine waters of the Celtic Sea. Let’s explore the numerous benefits of Celtic Sea Salt and why it's gaining popularity as a healthier choice for Seasoning and nourishing our bodies.
I have been using our Celtic Sea Salt for about 6 months now. What drew me particularly to this mineral rich substance was feeling bloated all the time, I was having trouble with my gut/digestive health, I kept getting repeated headaches and I always felt dehydrated. Tom suggested using Celtic Sea Salt and honestly, I will never use another Salt again. I also performed the Salt Water Flush for detox means (check this Blog out by Tom on our website) and to ‘reset’ my gut so to speak which did absolute wonders for my gut microbiome. A fair warning however, this is not for the faint of heart! Learning more about the minerals in this superfood has profoundly equipped me to have more control of my overall bodily health, and to gain more knowledge of the minerals that we potentially aren’t even aware that we’re deficient in, especially Magnesium (I talk more on this further along) which plays a crucial role in our body and brain health. So let’s get into it.
The Origins of Celtic Sea Salt
Celtic Sea Salt, also known as grey Sea Salt or sel gris, originates from the coastal regions of Brittany, France, and parts of the British Isles, where Seawater is channelled into clay ponds or Salt marshes. Unlike traditional table Salt, Celtic Sea Salt is hand-harvested using wooden tools so as to preserve its "living enzymes" and naturally dried by the sun and wind. This ancient production method results in a product that retains essential minerals and nutrients, making it a more wholesome option.
I love that this naturally occurring ingredient is standing the test of time. Our Celtic Sea Salt in particular contains approximately 82 essential minerals and trace elements such as Potassium, Magnesium, Iron and Calcium, to name a few. These minerals are essential for maintaining our overall health and well-being.
There is so much conflicting information on the big wide web on the different salts and their health benefits so for me it was about doing the research, making it personal to my body’s requirements and learning about this ancient superfood and what it could do for me if taken in the right quantities, and then of course, sampling the product. It just so happens that I really enjoy the taste of these Sea Salt crystals, my headaches have reduced significantly (hardly any!) and I feel much less dehydrated than I did 6 months ago. Let’s get to the various health benefits of Celtic Sea Salt.
The Health Benefits of Celtic Sea Salt
Rich Mineral Content:
Celtic Sea Salt is celebrated for its impressive mineral profile. It contains essential minerals such as magnesium, calcium, potassium, and numerous trace minerals that are typically stripped away during the refining process of table Salt. These minerals are essential for various bodily functions, from maintaining proper electrolyte balance to supporting bone health.
Balances Electrolytes:
The blend of minerals in Celtic Sea Salt helps balance electrolytes in the body, which is essential for maintaining proper fluid balance, nerve function, and muscle contractions. Athletes and individuals who engage in strenuous activities often turn to Celtic Sea Salt as a natural way to replenish electrolytes. So instead of energy drinks, just try diluting a pinch of Celtic Sea Salt into a glass of clean water and drink this after any exercise. Or if you’re feeling particularly brave, put a pinch on your tongue and let it dissolve, my husband and I do this every morning to help our bodies hydrate and function better for day.
Heart Health:
Contrary to common misconceptions about Salt and heart health, the minerals in Celtic Sea Salt can help regulate blood pressure and support cardiovascular health. Potassium, in particular, plays a vital role in regulating blood pressure and reducing the risk of hypertension.
Improved Digestion:
Consuming Celtic Sea Salt can aid in digestion by promoting the production of stomach acid. Adequate stomach acid is crucial for breaking down food and absorbing nutrients effectively.
Reduced Sodium Intake:
While Celtic Sea Salt does contain sodium, its mineral-rich nature often allows people to use less Salt to achieve the same level of flavour. This means that you can enjoy the savoury taste of Salt with less actual sodium intake, which is particularly beneficial for those who need to monitor their Salt intake for health reasons.
Natural Flavour Enhancer:
The distinctive taste and texture of Celtic Sea Salt can elevate the flavours of your dishes, making it an excellent choice for culinary purposes. Chefs and home cooks appreciate its ability to enhance the taste of various dishes, including desserts.
Lower Environmental Impact:
The traditional harvesting methods used to collect Celtic Sea Salt, which haven’t been changed in 1,200 years, are environmentally sustainable as they have minimal impact on local ecosystems. This aligns with the principles of responsible and sustainable food production.
The one mineral abundant in this superfood which I’d like to highlight briefly is Magnesium. Tom refers to this mineral as the ‘master’ mineral, and here’s why; most of us won’t even realise how deficient we are in Magnesium but our body and brains functioning relies heavily upon its availability. Every cell inside our body contains Magnesium and needs it to function effectively. It is said that 60% of our bodies Magnesium occurs in our bones and the rest in muscle, soft tissue and even in our blood. Magnesium is the “helper” molecule assisting enzymes in over 600 biochemical reactions in our bodies such as converting food into energy, helping create and repair DNA, protein formation, aiding in our muscles contracting and relaxing, and even regulating our nervous system, to name a few. So in order to function effectively it’s of such importance to sustain a healthy flow of Magnesium rich substances into our system.
How to Incorporate Celtic Sea Salt into Your Diet
Celtic Sea Salt can be used in a variety of ways in the kitchen, just like regular table Salt. You can sprinkle it on top of dishes, use it in cooking and baking, or even create gourmet Salt blends with herbs and spices. One I have tried is a Herb Salt, which are dried herbs (of your choice) that you can either buy or pick from ones you have grown, and simply blend the Celtic Sea Salt and dried herbs in a pestle and mortar (I’ve heard of people also using a sandwich bag and a large spoon!) to the consistency you like, store the mixture in an air tight glass jar in a cool, dark place for at least 12 hours before using and use within a few months as dried herbs lose their flavour after a few months. Salt is a preserver, so get creative with experimenting preserving herbs in Celtic Sea Salt. It adds something a little different and exciting to meals and I’ve even gifted my Herbal Salts to friends and family! The key is to use it in moderation and savour the natural, complex flavours it provides your meals.
Celtic Sea Salt is not just a tasty Seasoning; it's a health-conscious choice for those who appreciate the importance of a balanced diet, it’s a nod to natures brilliance and a testament to human ingenuity. With its rich mineral content and numerous health benefits, Celtic Sea Salt offers a healthier alternative to table Salt. As we strive to make more mindful choices with nutrition, embracing the treasures of Celtic Sea Salt can be a small yet impactful step towards overall well-being and a healthier future.
“There must be something strangely sacred in Salt. It is in our tears and in the Sea” Kahlil Gibran
