Salt is a white, crystalline substance commonly used to season and preserve food. Salt provides the body with minerals that are essential for proper growth and development. However, too much salt is harmful because it increases the risk of high blood pressure and dehydration. A child normally will need only small quantities of salt. It is usually present in breast milk in sufficient amounts to provide the necessary nutritional value. Since excessive salt intake is not healthy, its consumption should be minimized. Some risks associated with high salt intake are hypertension, cardiovascular disorders, kidney stones, kidney infections, and stroke. Health risks could be decreased considerably with reduced salt intake.