High blood pressure: Sodium and hypertension

7 Salty Myths Busted

1. Myth: Eliminate sodium completely for good health

Sodium is an essential nutrient that controls blood pressure and is needed to make nerves and muscles work properly, but you need the right amount.

2. Myth: Sea salt has less sodium than table salt

Sea salt is very popular, but it usually isn’t any less salty. Just like table salt, it typically contains 40% sodium.

3. Myth: I usually don’t salt my food, so I don't eat too much sodium

About 71% of sodium Americans consume is estimated to come from processed and restaurant foods – not the saltshaker.

That’s why it’s so important to compare Nutrition Facts labels and serving sizes.

4. Myth: High levels of sodium are only found in food

Some over-the-counter medications contain high levels of sodium. Read drug labels carefully and remember that some companies produce low-sodium over-the-counter products.

5. Myth: I don’t eat a lot of salty food so I don't eat too much sodium.

Sodium is found in almost all foods including mixed dishes such as sandwiches, burgers, and tacos; rice, pasta, and grain dishes; pizza; meat, poultry, and seafood dishes; and soups. Use the Nutrition Facts label to choose foods with the least sodium.

6. Myth: My blood pressure is normal, so I don’t need to worry about how much sodium I eat.

The American Heart Association recommends no more than 2,300 milligrams (mg) a day and moving toward an ideal limit of no more than 1,500 mg per day for most adults. Even cutting back by 1,000 mg daily can help improve your blood pressure and heart health.

7. Myth: Lower sodium foods have no taste.

There is a rich world of creative and flavorful alternatives to salt. Experiment with spices, herbs, and citrus to enhance the natural flavor of your food!
Heart.org/sodium
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