Strategies for scaling back on salt
Foods high in sodium can boost your blood pressure. Check labels and make smart swaps for low sodium foods when shopping and dining out.
- Reviewed by Frances Parpos, RD, Contributor
The average American consumes around 3,400 milligrams (mg) of sodium daily, which far exceeds the recommended sodium intake of 2,300 mg per day. Eating too much causes your body to hold on to extra water to dilute the extra sodium. As a result, the fluid inside your blood vessels increases, raising your blood pressure and your risk of cardiovascular disease.
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About the Author
Julie Corliss, Executive Editor, Harvard Heart Letter
About the Reviewer
Frances Parpos, RD, Contributor
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