Is salt inherently bad?

The Claim

Various people (Aajonus, Goatis) and their followers claim that table salt (sodium chloride) is inherently harmful to humans. The point is made explicitly, that any amount of it is bad, rather than having too little or too much of it. They do not go into biochemical detail on why they believe that, so we can start with the counter arguments.

Counterclaims by K

#1 Sodium chloride changes form

When sodium chloride (table salt) comes into contact with water - such as saliva - it immediately dissolves into sodium and chloride ions.

#2 Chloride and sodium ions are natural

You will find both sodium and chloride ions in blood, meat, fish, dairy, eggs, shellfish and many other foods.

#3 Animals seek out salt

Many animals seek out salt and consume it. Game, livestock, birds, insects and even carnivorous animals are known to travel to and remember salt rich areas. If humans put up “salt licks” they will be drawn to them and consume them.

Verdict

Bottom line: Table salt does not stay in its crystal form and turns into completely natural electrolyte ions. There is nothing to be afraid of.

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