Why Do We Crave Salt?

Salt seasons our foods and makes things like pretzels even more delicious. But have you noticed that you’re reaching for those pretzels more often than usual? It may be simply that you have a craving for pretzels, but there could also be other mental and physiological reasons at play as well.

StressWoman pouring salt from shaker onto black table, closeup

If you’re going through a stressful time in your life, then you may be eating more salty foods. This is because when you’re stressed, your body releases cortisol and other stress-related hormones. Cortisol can cause food cravings, especially foods that contain salt.

Sleep deprivation

Mental stress isn’t the only type of stress that causes salt cravings. If your body is under stress because you’re lacking sleep, you will also begin to crave salt for the same reasons. While we never want to discourage people from eating pretzels, we’d rather people enjoy them while they’re fully rested. So, be sure you’re getting those seven to nine hours of sleep per night.

Premenstrual syndrome

Premenstrual syndrome, or PMS, causes hormonal changes in the body. Due to these hormonal changes, women may begin craving sweet or salty foods.

Exercise

When we exercise, we sweat, and sweating reduces the sodium levels in our body. As such, if you’ve had a tough workout session, you may start craving salt as your body seeks to bring your sodium levels back to normal.

Boredom

Have you ever caught yourself looking through the kitchen simply because you have nothing better to do? When humans are bored, we tend to snack. This is especially true if you’re going through a mid-afternoon slump and want something to boost your spirits.

No matter the reason, pretzels are the perfect food to snack on, especially those that are handmade. Look through our shop here at Uncle Henry’s Pretzel Bakery to find some delicious handmade pretzels today!