Limit Sodium
Sodium is an essential nutrient necessary in small amounts for fluid balance, hydration, and proper nerve and muscle function.
However, nine out of ten children exceed their recommended sodium intake. Early dietary habits often persist into adulthood, influencing lifelong preferences. High sodium diets in childhood often translate to similar habits in adulthood.
Excessive sodium consumption can lead to hypertension, or high blood pressure, a leading cause of stroke and heart disease. Shockingly, Americans consume an average of over 1,100 additional milligrams of sodium daily!
Reducing the salt added to meals is just the beginning. About 70% of daily sodium intake comes from packaged, processed, and restaurant foods. Fast food and prepared meals generally contain higher sodium levels than homemade options. Interestingly, various flavors—sweet, salty, sour, and savory—can all contribute to sodium intake. For instance, did you know one teaspoon of salt equals 2,300 mg of sodium?
The top ten sources of sodium in the American diet include: breads/rolls, pizza, sandwiches, cold cuts and cured meats, soups, burritos/tacos, savory snacks (like chips), poultry, cheese, and egg dishes/omelets.