Salt by itself does not cause an otherwise healthy person to develop hypertension. Unless you already have hypertension problems (or are diagnosed as salt-sensitive), you don't need to restrict your salt intake. This doesn't mean you can eat your weight in salt every day. What it does mean is that you can relax and enjoy those salted pretzels, unless you already have a medical reason to control your sodium intake.
It's important to note, however, that sodium does play a significant role in water retention and weight gain. Talk to a nutritionist or certified personal trainer for more information. | 
