Salt Cravings and Sodium Deficiency

Question
My question is not necessarily about dieting, but I have been craving salty foods lately. The saltier the better. It has been years since I have done this. What could be causing this; is my system deficient of a nutrient?

Answer
Dear Anita,

Salt cravings can be caused by sodium depletion, for example, due to sweating. However, not always low levels of sodium in the blood result in craving for salt -- and otherwise: wanting salt foods not always mean sodium depletion. In a clinical study, people depleted of sodium by using diuretics, didn't have a craving for sodium.

There's a possibility that your body tries to improve your insulin sensitivity by making you get more salt: sodium chloride (table salt) enhances insulin response to carbohydrates. This is why many people crave salty foods after eating a large carb-rich meal.

Sodium deficiency is a very serios medical condition sometime leading to coma. Other symptoms can include:

Confusion
Seizure
Appetite loss
Vomiting
Muscle weakness
Swollen ankles/legs

Sodium and potassium deficiencies often go together and can be associated with cardiac arrhythmias.

If you have any of these symptoms, you have to talk to your doctor.

Tanya Zilberter, PhD
http://dietandbody.com

1. Prev:Fast Wright Loss For a Model
2. Next:suggestion for diet