Are pretzels bad for you?

While pretzels are generally low in fat, they contain high amounts of sodium, making them bad for those who wish to maintain a healthy diet. There are roughly 400 milligrams of sodium in a 1-ounce serving of soft pretzels.

Excess sodium can result in a number of problems, including high blood pressure, water-weight gain and kidney disease. A person should consume no more than 2,300 milligrams of salt per day, though 1,500 milligrams is considered more ideal. Kale chips are a healthy alternative to pretzels, as they provide nutrients that are not found in the typical crunchy snack. Fruit, when freshly prepared, also works as a substitute.