Hidden sources for sodium

So you've decided to start eating healthier, watching your calories and monitoring your food choices.  But what about "sodium".......how much and where to get it from is equally as important as the food you eat.  First, we need sodium for our nerves and muscle to function.  Second, based upon several factors (i.e. ethnic background, healthy/physical condition, etc.) we need anywhere from no more than 1700 mg to 2300 mg per day.  To put that amount into perspective, a single teaspoon of salt is equal to 2300 mg of sodium.  Most of our sodium intake isn't from what we "sprinkle" on our food but what we consume unknowingly.  Becoming aware of what we're consuming and where sodium is hidden is a good practice to put into use on a daily basis.  Remembering that sodium is used as a preservative will help you to understand where it will be used in the food you consume and how to avoid "over-using" it in your daily diet.

Breakfast food
Pancake mix, cereals and breakfast bars all contain various amounts of sodium. 

Bottled water
Spring water and distilled water are the products where sodium is mostly used.  The sodium is added for "taste" value.

Canned food products
Spaghetti sauce, soups and canned vegetables all contain some degree of sodium, added to both preserve and produce taste in the food product.

Frozen food
Many (but not all) frozen foods contain sodium, added to flavor their product.

Glazed meat
Fresh chicken often receives a "glazing" for both preservation and seasoning. 

Sodas, bottled/canned juices, energy drinks
Usually, anything in a bottle or can contains some type of preservative (i.e. sodium).

The simplest way to remember what food/beverage might have sodium added to it is to ask yourself this:  Is it frozen, in a box, can, or bottle, does it have the word seasoned or glazed on the label?  If so, it's probably (more than likely) loaded with sodium.  Learning to watch how much sodium you intake is the best first step to take in protecting your health.

Quick tips for wellness:  Hidden sodium is the culprit behind many health problems.





Quick Tips for Wellness Copyright (C) 2011