Did you know that most Americans consume an excessive amount of sodium on a daily basis? The American Heart Association recommends no more than 2,300mg of sodium per day which equates to 1 teaspoon of salt. The average American consumes a whopping 3,400mg of sodium every single day. So, how does that affect our body and how it functions?
Too much sodium in your body causes water retention making your body pump more blood and as a result puts you at an increased risk for high blood pressure.
Symptoms of high blood pressure are not always easily identifiable, making it known as the "silent killer". It's a major risk factor of heart disease, the leading cause of death worldwide.
Excess sodium in our diets can often be attributed to processes, pre-packaged food as well as restaurant foods. Try reducing your sodium intake by paying close attention the sodium content on the packaged foods that you purchase, including condiments. Ditching the salt shaker at the kitchen table will also help decrease the amount of added sodium in your diet. If you're worried about bland tasting meals, incorporate herbs and spices into you're cooking! They'll up the flavor profile without increasing your salt intake.
For additional information on sodium and more tips on how to reduce salt in your diet check out www.sodiumbreakup.heart.org to learn more!