|
|
(HealthNewsDigest.c0m) – BOSTON — Although salt is essential for health, less is more when it comes to this ubiquitous mineral, reports the November 2010 issue of Harvard Men’s Health Watch.
Experts agree that the average American diet contains far more sodium than needed. Over the past dozen years, the evidence has tilted strongly in favor of reducing dietary sodium to lower blood pressure and improve health. Yet progress toward lowering sodium has been slow, in part because Americans are accustomed to salty foods.
Nearly everyone can benefit from sodium restriction. The U.S. Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommend that adults consume no more than 2,300 mg of sodium a day, and that people with high blood pressure, all middle-aged and older adults, and all African Americans get no more than 1,500 mg a day.
Because the American diet contains so much sodium, much of it hidden in processed foods, low-sodium eating may seem impossible. But salt is an acquired taste, so you can acquire a taste for less.
Harvard Men’s Health Watch provides some tips to help you attain your personal goals:
* Start changing early, so you can change gradually.
* Encourage the rest of your household to join your program.
* Begin by omitting salt from your table, then from your cooking.
* Learn to use other seasonings such as pepper, lemon, or herbs.
* Avoid frozen dinners, fast and convenience foods, and junk foods. Beware of prepared sauces and condiments.
* Read food labels carefully. Avoid prepared soups and tomato sauces.
* Shop for products that are sodium-free or low-sodium.
* Choose fresh and homemade foods over processed foods whenever possible. Favor fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
Subscribe to our FREE Ezine and receive current Health News, be eligible for discounted products/services and coupons related to your Health. We publish 24/7.
HealthNewsDigest.com
For advertising/promotion, email: [email protected] Or call toll free: 877- 634-9180