How can I avoid sodium in canned or frozen vegetables if I have diabetes?

Marisa Moore on behalf of Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics

Nutrition & Dietetics

It's become easier than ever to avoid sodium in canned or frozen vegetables. Here's what to do:

Choose plain frozen vegetables. Skip the ones with special seasonings and sauces. Season them yourself at home with herbs, spices, onions, garlic or citrus juices.
Look for canned vegetables labeled "No Salt Added."
Drain and rinse canned beans and other vegetables. This simple step can remove up to 40% of the sodium.
Read the labels and compare. There's a wide variety of options on the market. Choose the ones that fit into your lower sodium diet.

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Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.

Diabetes

Diabetes mellitus (MEL-ih-tus), often referred to as diabetes, is characterized by high blood glucose (sugar) levels that result from the body’s inability to produce enough insulin and/or effectively utilize the insulin. Diabetes is a serious, life-long condition and the sixth leading cause of death in the United States. Diabetes is a disorder of metabolism (the body's way of digesting food and converting it into energy). There are three forms of diabetes. Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease that accounts for five- to 10-percent of all diagnosed cases of diabetes. Type 2 diabetes may account for 90- to 95-percent of all diagnosed cases. The third type of diabetes occurs in pregnancy and is referred to as gestational diabetes. Left untreated, gestational diabetes can cause health issues for pregnant women and their babies. People with diabetes can take preventive steps to control this disease and decrease the risk of further complications.

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How can I avoid sodium in canned or frozen vegetables if I have diabetes?

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