The Hindu - Wednesday, Mar 19, 2003

Introduction

   SALT IS the most common ingredient in our food, yet, we never really pause to think about it or pick the best. Is it because we think there is no choice, except in the brands? I am happy to report that there is not only choice but that Himalayan salt is as old as the hills (literally) and its health enhancing properties have been extolled by Charak, (the father of Ancient Indian herbal medicine, 2000 BC), Unani expert Hafiz Hakim Hassan Mufi Tonki, Prof Manfred Kage (Germany) and even our very own University Of Madras. It is quite distinct from refined sea-salt, which we use regularly.

This 100 per cent vegetarian salt, is completely chemical free. This Himalayan salt is natural and mined, whereas refined sea salt is man-made. It is low in sodium, has a long shelf life and has anti-caking properties too.

And bringing this salt onto the international and national map is a passionate 76 year-old young man who jet sets across continents and is determined to spread the salt and the good news to all. This is a labour of love for this big-time owner of national and international mines, whose businesses span software, construction and even the movie hall business. Says Shivshanker Gupta "I have been eating this ‘Saindhav’ salt for many years, studying all the ancient and modern research on it and I can tell you it is God's gift".

  Endorsing this "God's gift" are several international experts, cardiologists, neurologists, dieticians and researchers. All food salt is 98 per cent sodium chloride and the difference comes from the mineral balance of the remaining 2 per cent. Himalayan salt contains over 74 trace minerals, including all those essential for good health and vitality. Prof Manfred Kage of the University of Mannheim, Dr. E Scherwitz-Josenhans, Germany, conclude that Himalayan salt promotes the elimination of animal protein from the body.

Modern researchers at the University of Madras studying the salt have come up with the good news — it controls body weight, removes obesity and improves skin gloss too. They point out that this salt has a protective action in liver diseases (hepatoprotective activity) and also helps in preventive action in heart diseases, neuro-digestive diseases. Maybe that's why they coined the phrase "worth your salt".

THANKS A million for all your calls and messages. Your suggestions and recommendations really do help us all. Do keep calling and  smiling!

(Rashmi Uday Singh is a food reporter,critic and author for 21 years. Food and health are her passions. )

Source: http://www.hinduonnet.com/thehindu/mp/2003/03/19/stories/200303190020 0300.htm