Less Sodium in Your Body

Less sodium in your body means you retain less water, have less fluid in your blood vessels, and less "pressure" in your system.

Sodium is a major part of table salt. Sodium is also used as a preservative and flavor enhancer in foods that may not even taste salty. Try these tips to lower your sodium intake:

1. Always taste your food before reaching for the salt shaker.
2. Use pepper and other seasonings to add flavor before adding salt.
3. Cook with a variety of seasonings, such as onion and garlic.

4. Add a dash of lemon juice to vegetables and salads to brighten the flavor.
5. Avoid seasoned salt or garlic salt; use garlic powder or fresh garlic.
6. Try a commercial salt-free seasoning mix and carry a small container of it with you.

7. Ask for foods to be prepared without salt in restaurants and ask for sauces on the side.
8. Read the labels on prepared foods and canned goods to avoid high-salt items, and find no-salt-added or low-sodium products.
Remember, the closer to nature a food is, the more likely it will be low in salt.