4. Salt
Salt is a critical nutrient that we can’t entirely avoid. In conjunction with potassium, it plays a huge role in regulating kidney function and blood pressure. But it is very easy to get too much due to the crazy high levels found in processed foods. Even sweet foods contain a ton of salt.
Chronic overconsumption of salt has been linked to a higher risk of stomach cancer, as well as dangerously high blood pressure. It also tends to inflame joints and spark arthritis pain. The more meals you can cook at home from fresh ingredients, the less salt you’ll eat overall.