Many foods naturally contain sodium, including animal products like meat, fish, poultry, milk and eggs. Vegetable products are naturally low in sodium. Avoiding foods that are high in sodium is important to lowering the salt in your diet. Many snack foods and prepared foods are high in salt, which why they taste satisfying to some people. But sometimes the food may not taste salty yet it is still high in sodium content.
You can check on the sodium content by reading the nutritional label on the side of the package or can. In fact, did you know that some canned foods have more sodium that a person needs for an entire day?!
Some foods to avoid on a lower salt diet include all prepared foods, chips, crackers, lunch meats, cured meats like bacon and ham, condiments (catsup, mustard, and steak sauce), canned vegetables, canned soups, packaged noodle dishes, fast foods and prepare at home fast foods.
Ask your doctor how much sodium (or salt) you need each day, and then read the nutritional information label on the side of the package to check the sodium content.
If you are watching your sodium intake limit the following high sodium foods:
- Instant and packaged foods (frozen meals, ready-to-eat foods)
- Processed meats
- Canned foods (soups, vegetables, etc.)
- Pickled foods
Instead, use fresh or frozen fruits, vegetables, fresh meats, foods without added salt or unsalted versions.
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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.