• shalafi@lemmy.world
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    4 days ago

    Just tried it.

    “Can I replace table salt with sodium bromide?”

    No, you should not replace table salt (sodium chloride, NaCl) with sodium bromide (NaBr).
    
    Here’s why:
    1. Toxicity and Health Risks
    
        Sodium bromide was historically used in medicine and as a sedative, but it has been discontinued in many countries due to toxicity and side effects, especially with prolonged use.
    
        Bromide ions can accumulate in the body, leading to a condition called bromism, which can cause:
    
            Neurological issues (lethargy, confusion, psychosis)
    
            Skin eruptions
    
            Gastrointestinal distress
    
    2. Different Biological Roles
    
        Chloride (from salt) is essential for:
    
            Electrolyte balance
    
            Stomach acid production (HCl)
    
            Nerve function
    
        Bromide, on the other hand, is not essential in the human diet, and its biological role is very limited, if any.
    
    3. Taste and Cooking
    
        Sodium bromide has a different taste—it may be bitter or off-putting.
    
        It won't behave the same way in food or recipes.
    
    Summary:
    
    Do not substitute sodium bromide for table salt. It's not safe for dietary use and could pose serious health risks.
    
    If you're looking to reduce sodium or explore alternatives, here are safer options:
    
        Potassium chloride (KCl) – common low-sodium salt substitute
    
        Herb blends – for flavor without sodium
    
        Seaweed or umami seasonings – for savory depth
    
    Let me know your reason for wanting a salt substitute, and I can suggest something suitable.
    

    Not seeing anything wrong in all that.

    This moron asked a loaded question to get the answer he wanted. Or more likely, asked and then kept the conversation going until it went off the rails, which in my experience starts at the second or third question.