Salt Intake: How Do You Compare?

The average person consumes about 6 to 18 grams of salt daily. That's roughly one to three teaspoonfuls. Your body actually needs only about 0.5 grams of salt (0.2 grams of sodium or approximately 2300 mgs of Na) each day. 

Reducing the amount of sodium you consume may help you reduce or avoid high blood pressure. High blood pressure, is more likely to lead to heart disease and stroke. Cardiovascular disease is the No. 1 cause of death in the United States.

American Heart Association sodium recommendations Healthy American adults should reduce their sodium intake to no more than 2300 mgs per day. This is about 1-1/4 teaspoons of sodium chloride (salt). Many foods in their natural state contain sodium, but most sodium in our diet is added to food while it's being commercially processed or prepared at home. That's why you need to be aware of both natural and added sodium content when you choose foods to lower your sodium intake. When buying prepared and pre-packaged foods, read the labels. 

Watch for the words soda and sodium and the symbol Na on labels - these words show that sodium compounds are present.

Eating more meals away from home? Controlling your sodium intake doesn't need to spoil the pleasure of a restaurant meal: just order selectively. Don't use the salt shaker. Use the peppershaker or mill. Be familiar with low-sodium foods and look for them on restaurant menus. When you order, be specific about what you want and how you want your food prepared. Request that they prepare your dish without salt. Add fresh lemon juice to fish and vegetables instead of salt. Heart Smart options are available in many restaurants.



February 28/02
Karin.

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Karin Henderson British Columbia, Canada (604) 463 8666 
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