Analysis of Salt in Cheez Its Original Snack Crackers

Salt, also known as sodium chloride, is a key ingredient in many processed foods including Cheez Its Original Snack Crackers. It is mainly used to enhance flavor, improve texture and shelf life. Nutritional Value: Sodium is essential for the body in appropriate amounts as it helps maintain fluid balance, transmit nerve impulses, and is involved in muscle contractions. However, in excessive amounts, intake of sodium can potentially lead to negative health implications. Health implications: 1. High Blood Pressure: High sodium intake has been linked to increased blood pressure, which can lead to heart disease and stroke. 2. Kidney Disease: High salt consumption can lead to kidney damage as it causes a high amount of protein in the urine. 3. Heart Disease: Too much sodium can cause fluid build-up in people with heart diseases, exacerbating the condition. 4. Osteoporosis: Some studies suggest that excessive salt intake can increase the amount of calcium excreted in the urine, which could lead to osteoporosis. A serving of Cheez Its Original Snack Crackers contains about 230mg of sodium, which is approximately 10% of the recommended daily intake of 2300mg for adults. If you are eating Cheez-Its as a snack in conjunction with an otherwise healthy diet, they can be part of a balanced diet. However, for those watching sodium intake due to hypertension, heart or kidney disease, this would contribute significantly to their daily intake and could potentially cause problems. In terms of nutritional score, considering the impacts of excessive sodium consumption on health especially in terms of cardiovascular diseases, but also recognizing it is essential in appropriate quantities: It's important to note that the score reflects the fact that sodium intake should be balanced. While some is essential for our biological functions, too much can lead to significant health issues. Also, it is the overall diet you consume throughout the day that matters more than just one particular food item. It's best to review the nutritional content of the entire diet and adjust the proportions of various food ingredients for a more balanced intake.