Evidence supporting the use of: Sea salt
For the body system: Adrenal Cortex

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Sea salt has been traditionally used to "support" the adrenal cortex and the broader adrenal system, particularly within alternative health and naturopathic circles. The rationale is based on the understanding that the adrenal glands play a key role in regulating sodium balance and blood pressure through the secretion of hormones like aldosterone. When individuals experience "adrenal fatigue" (a concept not recognized in mainstream medicine), proponents often suggest increasing salt intake, especially sea salt, to help maintain electrolyte balance and support adrenal function. This recommendation draws on the idea that those experiencing chronic stress may have lower aldosterone levels, leading to salt cravings and low blood pressure, which can be temporarily relieved by salt consumption. However, the scientific evidence specifically supporting the use of sea salt—versus regular table salt—for adrenal cortex support is lacking. While sodium is indeed essential for maintaining fluid balance and proper physiological function, and the body’s sodium regulation involves the adrenal cortex, there are no robust clinical trials demonstrating that sea salt offers unique benefits to adrenal health. Most evidence supporting salt for adrenal support is anecdotal or based on physiological reasoning rather than direct scientific validation. Furthermore, the concept of “adrenal fatigue” itself is not widely supported by endocrinologists. In summary, sea salt's use for the adrenal cortex is grounded in tradition and not scientific validation.

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