The Low Sodium Diet

Sodium is essential in your body. This mineral helps the body regulate your fluid balance. In certain conditions, excess sodium can cause the body to retain too much fluid. This proves harmful for people who have high blood pressure or heart disease. People who have these conditions often require a diet low in sodium. Restrictions of only two to four grams of sodium a day can help reduce the fluid retention and also aid in the relief of symptoms of high blood pressure. With sodium being so prevalent in our common foods today through preparation (adding table salt) and processing (canned and frozen foods), this can prove to be a difficult achievement.

However, if you are aware of the sodium content of what foods you intake, it is an attainable goal. Table salt comprises the largest source of sodium in the every day diet. This must be restricted completely from a low sodium diet. Sometimes sodium occurs naturally in many foods. When purchasing an item at the grocery store, be sure to check its sodium content. One gram of sodium equals 1,000 mg so for a person that is only allowed 2 grams of sodium, that maximum mg amount is 2,000. As a good rule of thumb, look for items that have less than 300 mg of sodium per serving.

Some foods use sodium in their processing such as baking soda and baking powder. Be sure to check the food label before using. Even common medications such as antacids, laxatives and cough remedies contain sodium compounds. If you are unsure of the sodium content on your prescription drugs, check with your pharmacist. Avoiding fast food restaurants is a positive step in the right direction since the foods served are found to be very high in sodium. Even water contains sodium! Especially in areas where a water softener must be used to rid the calcium in hard water. When purchasing bottled water, check the label to be sure it contains no sodium.

If you must use a salt substitute, talk to your physician prior to using it. Of course, there are other alternatives to adding flavor to your food without adding sodium. Onion, garlic, lemon, vinegar, black pepper and parsley can also enhance the flavor of your food without adding unnecessary sodium. Make smart choices with your spices and you can reduce your risk of symptoms of high blood pressure.