The Scoop on Sodium

Most Americans eat too much sodium. In fact, according to the American Heart Association, we consume as much as three teaspoonfuls of salt daily when we should consume less than 1 teaspoon.

Processed Foods

Furthermore, up to 75 percent of the sodium we eat comes from processed foods like:

  • Tomato sauce
  • Soups
  • Condiments
  • Canned goods
  • Prepared mixes

Studies have shown that reducing the amount of sodium in the diet can reduce high blood pressure, decreasing the risk of heart disease and stroke.

Control Blood Pressure Through Diet

  • Maintain a healthy weight.
  • Increase potassium by eating eight to 10 servings of fruits and vegetables each day. High potassium intake is associated with reduced blood pressure in people with or without high blood pressure.
  • Moderate the intake of alcohol. Clinical trials have shown a dose-dependent relationship between alcohol and blood pressure, especially in people who drink more than two drinks a day. Alcohol consumption should be limited to no more than two drinks a day in most men and no more than one drink a day in women and lighter-weight persons. One drink is 12 ounces of regular beer, 5 ounces of wine and 1.5 ounces of 80-proof distilled spirits.
  • The diet emphasizes fruits, vegetables and low-fat dairy products; includes whole grains, poultry, fish and nuts; and is reduced in fats, red meat, sweets and sugar-containing beverages.

You can read more in Bidmc.

Image to link: Health spa blog

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