Diet Ratings
Pure salt contains zero carbs, zero calories, and zero impact on ketosis. Essential electrolyte for keto dieters, especially important for preventing keto flu.
Mineral product with no animal origin. Completely vegan regardless of source (sea salt, rock salt, etc.).
Unprocessed mineral available to Paleolithic humans. Essential electrolyte. No grains, legumes, dairy, or seed oils. Widely accepted across all paleo authorities.
Mediterranean diet emphasizes herbs and spices for flavor over salt. While salt is used, modern recommendations favor minimal added sodium. Mediterranean populations historically had lower sodium intake than contemporary Western diets.
Mineral salt is approved across all carnivore protocols, including the strictest Lion Diet. Essential for electrolyte balance and flavor enhancement.
Plain salt (sodium chloride) is explicitly allowed on Whole30. No excluded ingredients.
Salt (sodium chloride) is a mineral with no fermentable carbohydrates. It is universally low-FODMAP and approved for unlimited use in the low-FODMAP diet.
Pure sodium chloride. One teaspoon contains ~2,300mg sodium, matching the entire daily DASH limit. DASH explicitly restricts sodium to <2,300mg/day (standard) or <1,500mg/day (low-sodium). Salt is the primary dietary sodium source to minimize.
Pure sodium chloride with zero macronutrients. No impact on Zone ratios. Dr. Sears acknowledges salt's role in electrolyte balance; moderate use is compatible with Zone protocol.
Salt itself is neutral, but excessive sodium intake is pro-inflammatory and linked to hypertension and immune dysregulation. Anti-inflammatory diet emphasizes moderation. Acceptable in small amounts; problematic in excess. Context-dependent based on total dietary sodium.
Salt is zero-calorie and does not trigger GI distress. However, GLP-1 patients often experience reduced thirst sensation, which increases dehydration risk. Excessive salt intake can worsen dehydration and electrolyte imbalance. Use salt in moderation and ensure adequate hydration. Not harmful in normal amounts, but requires awareness.
Controversy Index
Score range: 1–10/10. Higher controversy = more disagreement between diets.