17 Jun Lessen Your Sodium Intake

Our body needs only a little amount of sodium to function well. Too much sodium can:

• cause retention of fluid in the body that leads to puffiness, bloating and weight gain
• puts you at risk for
  • High blood pressure
  • Heart disease
  • Stroke
  • Kidney disease

Food that are high in sodium are:

• Processed foods, cold-cuts, cured meat factory-prepared meals, canned soups and vegetables unless labeled low-sodium

• Fast-food meals such as pizza, burgers, tacos and flavored fries

• Salted nuts and chips

• Gravy and other condiments such as ketchup, BBQ sauce, hot sauce, soy sauce and salad dressings

• Bread

• Cheese

Remember to make healthy choices. How? Here’s what you can do:

• Read labels. Choose brands with less sodium.
• Limit take-outs and fast foods. Prepare your own meals with fresh ingredients. To add flavor, use herbs and spices to reduce use of salt.
• Make fresh vegetables and fruits a staple in your diet.