Welcome to “Food is Medicine” by Its All About Choices. The theme for October is “Sodium” – Is Sodium Making you Fat?
Many people intake 3 times the amount of sodium needed by the body daily. It’s not just about using the salt shaker when cooking. It’s not just about the food tasting salty.
Studies have shown that cutting back on salt can lower blood pressure in people with and without high blood pressure, according to a statement from the American Heart Association.
The recommended daily allowance for sodium is 2,300 mg for healthy individuals. This number is lower for those with heart disease and/or history of high blood pressure.
Tip #3 Beware of Dressings, Sauces, and Marinades
If you think a little bit of dressing or sauce won’t add that much sodium to your meal, think again. Check out the salt sticker shock on some dressings in restaurants:
Creamy Southwest Dressing (~ 2 TBSP): 1,060 milligrams sodium
Bacon Ranch Dressing (~ 2 TBSP): 810 milligrams sodium
Asian Sesame Dressing (~ 2 TBSP): 780 milligrams sodium
Remember the recommended daily recommendation for healthy individuals is 2,300 mg PER DAY. It adds up quickly!