Health Benefits of Reducing Salt

Most Americans surpass the daily salt consumption guideline. Too much sodium is hazardous. The daily salt limit is 2,300 mg. This is the maximum daily salt consumption suggested by the American Heart Association (AHA). 

Here’s how to cut salt from your diet

Make sure you read food labels thoroughly. Make sure that the salt content of the food you buy is no more than 140 milligrams per serving. Be wary of “low-sodium” labels; the FDA defines “low-sodium” as fewer than 140 milligrams of sodium per serving (FDA). The American Heart Association reports that a single serving of canned soup may have over 700 milligrams of salt. There is more than a thousand milligrams of sodium in a single serving of certain brands. This is why it’s crucial to check the food’s nutritional information before making a purchase. 

Instead of buying canned veggies, go for fresh or frozen options instead. While canned veggies provide a number of benefits, including portability and ease of storage, they also come with a greater sodium content owing to the salt added during processing. Vegetables, whether fresh or frozen, are readily accessible pretty much all year round, so you may eat healthily no matter where you live or what time of year it is. 

Choose reduced-sodium meals and condiments. Try to find the words “light” or “reduced sodium” on food labels. Stay away from anything that has additional salt. Leavening agents are used in many different types of baked products and packaged meals. Some examples are monosodium glutamate (MSG), baking soda, baking powder, and sodium bicarbonate. 

Put down the shaker and listen to some music instead. No, you probably won’t eliminate salt from your diet totally, but you should reduce your intake. Choose fresh herbs and spices that give a burst of flavor without sodium instead of salt when seasoning your food. 

Avoiding salt entirely is impossible, but you can reduce how much you eat. Keep in mind that there are other essential minerals that should be considered if you decide to reduce your salt consumption. And as usual consult a doctor.