Hi Dimitri - I didn't read all the posts so hopefully I haven't repeated too much information.

It can make a difference depending on the person and there has to be a balance between what your body needs for fuel, what your body can tolerate from a health perspective and the weight of the food itself. Most of us who hike don't have the issues with sodium and a little extra in our hiking diet isn't a big deal. Too little food and one might start to become lightheaded. Keep in mind that weather also has an impact.

Winter hiking - well you need more fat in the winter diet and a greater caloric intake.

Personally, when cooking for others, I go with a lower sodium approach and I let the individual add salt to their tastes and needs. I also avoid preservative ridden foods and keep factors like trip difficulty and time of year in mind as well.
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