Salt is America
The USDA Center for Nutrition Policy and Promotion’s new recommendation for sodium (salt or sodium chloride) intake has now been reduced to no more than 1,500mg per day. Many experts indicate diets high in sodium increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Americans are consuming more than 2.5 times higher than the suggested 1,500mg (American Heart Association, Inc., 2011). Cutting back on salt and sodium is a good idea for everyone. Here are some tips to help you cut back.
- Think fresh. Most of the sodium Americans eat is found in packaged, processed food.
- Enjoy home prepared foods more often.
- Fill up on foods naturally low in sodium, such as fruits and vegetables.
- Learn to enjoy the natural taste of foods.
- Read the label.
- Skip the table salt when cooking and use spices and herbs instead.
- Pay attention to the condiments and seasonings you use.
To get more tips for healthier eating go to http://www.cnpp.usda.gov/
