Watch Out for Hidden Salt

By: Batchelor Brothers Funeral Services
Sunday, December 3, 2017

We all know we shouldn’t eat too much salt. Overdoing it can lead to high blood pressure, heart attack, stroke, and other heart-related diseases.

The problem is that salt is hidden everywhere, even in foods that you might not suspect, like bread and milk. The U.S. Dietary Guidelines recommend less than 2,300 mg of sodium per day. And if you’re over 51, African American, or have high blood pressure, chronic kidney disease or diabetes, you should limit it to less than 1,500 mg. But according to the USDA Center for Nutrition Policy and Promotion, the estimated average intake of sodium for Americans is a whopping 3,400 mg per day.

Hidden salt is often the culprit.  A big problem is that salt lurks everywhere, even in foods that you might not suspect, like bread and milk. The American Heart Association (AHA) reports that 75% of the sodium in the average American diet comes from salt added to processed foods, so think twice before you buy those hot dogs and chips.. Here are some of the worst offenders:

1.     Breakfast cereal: You may be surprised to learn that some breakfast cereals can have 300 mg of sodium per one-cup serving. The next time you reach for that box of cereal, check out the nutritional label on the back, or opt for low sodium breakfast such as yogurt with fruit or a homemade smoothie.

2.     Frozen meals: These pre-made, microwaveable meals are loaded with sodium. Some of these dinners can have more than 1,200 mg of sodium each, as well as other unhealthy additives and preservatives.

3.     Canned soup: It’s tempting to turn to canned soup when it’s cold outside, but it can be packed with sodium. Conventional canned soups contain 750 mg of salt per cup, so it’s best to make your own or purchase the lower-sodium varieties.

4.     Deli meats: Processed and cured meats account for 10% of the American food supply. These products are packed with sodium, often in the dangerous form of sodium nitrate, a carcinogenic preservative. Avoid deli meats altogether or look for nitrate-free varieties.

5.     Canned vegetables: Some canned vegetables can carry as much as 500 mg of sodium per serving! It’s best to buy fresh or frozen vegetables, if possible. If you do consume the vanned variety, read the label carefully and choose low-sodium or no-salt-added options.

Steer clear of the salt shaker, too. There are a wide range of tasty herbs and spices that you can use to enhance the flavor of your foods without adding salt. Lemon juice, garlic, pepper, and onion, are all popular options that will make your food delicious without damaging your health.

Leave a comment
Name*:
Email:
Comment*:
Please enter the numbers and letters you see in the image. Note that the case of the letters entered matters.

Comments

Please wait

Previous Posts

Choosing a Funeral Celebrant? Here are Five Important Things to Know.

If you are responsible for choosing a funeral celebrant, seek someone who can provide a comforting presence and navigate the complexities of organizing a meaningful service. Selecting the individu...

It’s Healthy Aging Month: Eight Practical Ways to Boost Your Wellbeing

This Healthy Aging Month, discover how simple lifestyle changes can unlock the door to a more fulfilling life as you age. September is Healthy Aging Month, a time to promote ways for people to sta...

Seven Common Misconceptions about Hospice Care Explained

Misconceptions about hospice care often stem from a lack of accurate information and awareness. The many inaccuracies surrounding hospice care create unnecessary fear and reluctance at a challengi...

Choosing a Cemetery Property? Don’t Make These Common Mistakes

Choosing a cemetery property is a delicate process that requires the balancing of emotional comfort with practical considerations. When a loved one passes away, there are countless decisions to be...

Celebrate National Wellness Month with These Ten Wholesome Habits

Celebrate National Wellness Month by investing in your health with practical strategies to boost your well-being. Every August, National Wellness Month provides a dedicated time to focus on self-c...

Attending an End-of-Life Event? Follow this Helpful Guide to Funeral Etiquette

Whether it’s your first funeral or you need a refresher, this guide to funeral etiquette will help you offer your support with grace and dignity. Funerals and memorial services are about celebrati...

Five Tips to Help You Choose the Perfect Outfit for a Summertime Funeral

Balancing formality and comfort is key when dressing for a summertime funeral. Attending a funeral is an emotional experience, and figuring out what to wear can be an added stressor. This is espec...

July is Healthy Vision Month: Take These Steps to Prioritize Your Eye Health

Celebrate Healthy Vision Month by empowering yourself with the knowledge to protect your eyes. Every July, the National Eye Institute designates Healthy Vision Month to emphasize the importance of...

How Much Do You Know About Silent Strokes? Eight Ways to Reduce Your Risk

Arm yourself with knowledge and take action to decrease the risk of silent strokes. Is it possible to have a stroke and not be aware of it? The short answer is yes. Silent strokes are stealthy, lu...

Six Creative Ideas for Hosting a Meaningful Repast on a Budget

With thoughtful planning, hosting a repast on a budget can become a cherished tribute to a departed loved one. The repast or reception is an important part of the funeral process. Bringing everyon...