Pink Himalayan salt has become a staple in kitchens and wellness routines, often marketed as a healthier, more natural alternative to regular iodised salt. But Apollo doctor Dr Sudhir Kumar warns that much of the hype around Himalayan salt is misleading. While it may look premium and contain trace minerals, these offer no real nutritional benefit. In contrast, iodized salt plays a critical role in preventing brain damage and thyroid-related disorders, making it the science-backed choice for daily use.
Dr Sudhir Kumar explained that the idea of a “healthier” salt is largely a myth. Himalayan salt does contain trace minerals like calcium and magnesium, but the amounts are too tiny to have any meaningful impact. To get a significant nutritional benefit, one would have to consume dangerously high amounts of salt, which is not safe.
Another common misconception is that natural or less processed salts are automatically superior. The body processes sodium the same way, whether it is pink, white, or branded as expensive. Similarly, claims that Himalayan salt or sendha namak is better for blood pressure or heart health have no scientific backing. Sodium remains sodium, and there is no evidence that pink salt improves cardiovascular outcomes.
Dr Kumar also highlighted that consumers often pay 3–4 times more for Himalayan salt. The premium price is mostly for colour, texture, branding, and the wellness narrative, rather than proven health benefits. Pink salt may appeal for its taste or appearance, but it should remain a culinary preference, not a health decision.
For a science-based approach, Dr Sudhir Kumar recommends using iodised salt at home, keeping total salt intake under 5 grams per day, and not equating higher price with better nutrition. While Himalayan salt may add aesthetic or taste value, iodised salt protects your brain and supports overall health, making it the essential choice for every household.
Dr Sudhir Kumar explained that the idea of a “healthier” salt is largely a myth. Himalayan salt does contain trace minerals like calcium and magnesium, but the amounts are too tiny to have any meaningful impact. To get a significant nutritional benefit, one would have to consume dangerously high amounts of salt, which is not safe.
Another common misconception is that natural or less processed salts are automatically superior. The body processes sodium the same way, whether it is pink, white, or branded as expensive. Similarly, claims that Himalayan salt or sendha namak is better for blood pressure or heart health have no scientific backing. Sodium remains sodium, and there is no evidence that pink salt improves cardiovascular outcomes.
Which salt is good for brain health?
Iodised salt, on the other hand, is one of the greatest public-health successes. It provides essential iodine that prevents goitre, hypothyroidism, and most importantly, brain damage and lower IQ in children. In countries like India, where iodine deficiency is still a concern, using iodised salt is crucial. Most Himalayan salts available in the market are not iodised, which makes them less reliable for long-term health.Dr Kumar also highlighted that consumers often pay 3–4 times more for Himalayan salt. The premium price is mostly for colour, texture, branding, and the wellness narrative, rather than proven health benefits. Pink salt may appeal for its taste or appearance, but it should remain a culinary preference, not a health decision.
For a science-based approach, Dr Sudhir Kumar recommends using iodised salt at home, keeping total salt intake under 5 grams per day, and not equating higher price with better nutrition. While Himalayan salt may add aesthetic or taste value, iodised salt protects your brain and supports overall health, making it the essential choice for every household.