Foods high in sodium may not always be so easy to spot.
Even if you never reach for the salt shaker, you probably eat moresodiumthan you realize.
One teaspoon of table salt has about 2,400 milligrams (mg) of sodium.
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But you likely get much more salt from packaged, processed, and restaurant foods.
Similarly, frozen or refrigerated biscuit dough averages 528 mg (23% DV) of sodium per biscuit.
So, it’s best to eat them no more than occasionally.
Choose smaller portions of bread products and opt for whole-grain versions when possible to help lower your sodium intake.
Deli Meats
Deli cold cuts and cured meats typically have very high levels of sodium.
Meats to watch out for include:
Being cautious with your sliced meat selections can make a significant difference.
Soups
Canned soups often add a lot of sodium to your diet.
Restaurant and take-out burritos and tacos are often especially unhealthy.
Cheese
Cheese is a high-sodium snack that may have slipped your notice.
Many cheeses are high in salt, including:
Most cheeses contain 300-450 mg in a typical 1-ounce serving.
The sodium content is high because added salt holds moisture and stops the overgrowth of bacteria.
In addition to lower sugar, these options typically contain about 4% less salt.
Boxed Side Dishes
Boxed side dishes are typically very high in sodium.
Keep in mind that these two products and many others are available in low-sodium varieties.
Sauces and Dressings
Pre-packaged sauces can be very high in sodium.
Brined Foods
Brined foods use salt as the primary preservative.
Foods with natural sodium includecelery,beets, and milk.
It’s much easier to use less salt when preparing meals at home.
When you do have higher sodium foods, stick to smaller portions.
Check food labels so you’re able to compare products.
Summary
We all need sodium, but most people consume too much.
Breads, processed meats, and sandwiches are major culprits.
Too much sodium can raise the risk of high blood pressure, stroke, and heart attack.
It may also contribute to obesity, diabetes, and heart disease.
you might probably cut way back on sodium if you keep prepackaged and restaurant foods to a minimum.
Check labels to find low-sodium or no-sodium-added foods, and swap high-sodium foods for healthier versions when possible.
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