Salt

Salt pie chart

Hypertension, cardiovascular disease, and stroke are mainly the result of a Western diet and lifestyle.  Why?  :Because 80% of the salt (sodium) contained in processed, packaged, and convenience foods is added by the food producers.  

GOOD to know:

  • The Institute of Medicine recommends that adults eat no more than 2300 mg (one teaspoon) of salt per day
  • When sodium intake is reduced, blood pressure decreases within a week's time
  • The food industry uses sodium to enhance flavor, preserve foods, and retain moisture 
  • Hidden salt is contained in: cold cuts and cured meats, bread, frozen meals, cereal, and canned vegetables.

TO DO recommendations:

  • Read the 'nutrition facts' label before you purchase a food item
  • Choose foods that contain less than 20% (460 mg) of the daily value
  • Avoid high-salt condiments: soy and barbecue sauces, salad dressing, ketchup, and mustard
  • To add flavor, cook with herbs, spices, citrus, garlic, and onions.

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