What Are the Health Benefits of Morton's Salt Substitute?

Morton's Salt Substitute is made with consumers on sodium-restricted diets in mind. This salt substitute is made from potassium chloride, which the U.S. Food and Drug Administration affirms as GRAS -- generally recognized as safe. However, the manufacturer stresses the importance of consulting with your treating physician before you use Morton's Salt Substitute. It may give some nutrition and health benefits to most people; however, it's not recommended for those with certain health conditions or who take specific medications.

Salt Substitute Vs. Table Salt

Morton's Salt Substitute and similar products are typically composed of potassium chloride, whereas ordinary table salt, or sodium chloride, contains 40 percent sodium. Salt substitutes and regular salt are markedly similar in appearance, and they're both water soluble. However, when you use salt substitute, you cut the sodium out of the equation. According to the American Heart Association, some people are sensitive to the effects of sodium; it encourages excess fluid retention in your body, which makes your heart work harder 23. Your treating physician may advise you to go on a sodium--restricted diet if your blood pressure is 120/80 Hg or higher.

Potassium Chloride Benefits

Can Eating Salt Prevent Weight Loss?

Learn More

The adequate intake for potassium for adults age 19 and older is 4,700 micrograms a day. The Harvard School of Public Health notes that many Americans don't get enough potassium in their diets, so Morton's Salt Substitute may come in handy when making up for these dietary deficits. The potassium in salt substitutes may slightly reduce your risk for kidney problems, high blood pressure, stroke, osteoporosis and abnormal heart rhythms.

Cautions

Morton's Salt Substitute isn't a safe choice for people who can't tolerate extra potassium in their diet, specifically those with reduced kidney function. According to Harvard School of Public Health, salt substitutes may not be safe for people with kidney disease, diabetes or those with a history of blocked urinary flow. Potassium chloride isn't a good mix with all medications, including drugs used to treat congestive heart failure and high blood pressure that cause you to retain potassium. Talk to your doctor before making the switch to Morton's Salt Substitute.

Tips

Potassium Salt Substitutes

Learn More

Morton's Salt Substitute is best used after your food is already prepared. Harvard School of Public Health indicates that some people notice potassium chloride's bitter aftertaste, which is similar to the bitterness you may perceive when using a sugar substitute, such as saccharin. This acrid taste is enhanced when salt substitutes are used in the cooking process. To receive the best health benefits from Morton's Salt Substitute, it's essential to cut down on foods that are naturally salty, such as:

• olives
  
• bacon
  
• cheese
  
• seafood

Watch the added sodium in processed foods as well. The AHA indicates that Americans get 75 percent of their sodium from common canned and boxed foods, such as soups and broths, tomato sauce, packaged soup and dip mixes and condiments like soy sauce.