Sodium is Essential in Moderation

Nobody can live without some sodium in their diet. Sodium plays an essential role in body function because it regulates fluid levels in the body, helps control muscle contractions and regulates nerve impulses. In fact, without sodium in your body, you would have no blood pressure at all, your muscles would cramp up and curl in on themselves and your nerve pain could be agonizing.

However, there's a very big "but" attached to eating salt, which is the primary source of sodium in most people's diets. The body only needs about 2,300 milligrams of sodium a day or less - and that can be found in a teaspoon of salt! Too much salt (which is about 40% sodium) means that you will have an adverse affect on your health. Problems from too much salt intake include:

High blood pressure
Increased risk of heart disease
Fluid retention

Most Americans eat too much salt, and should reduce their intake to avoid the possibility of these complications. Unfortunately, most prepared and canned foods these days have far too much sodium in them. Here are a few tips to help ensure you cut back your salt intake to a healthier level:

Stop salting your food automatically - try other spices and herbs when you do feel something needs seasoned.
Eat low fat milk, yogurt and cheeses - dairy products also have a surprisingly high sodium level unless you buy the low fat varieties
Limit pretzels, chips and other salty snack foods
Look for canned soups and vegetables and frozen dinners that are reduced sodium or salt - it will be stated clearly on the labels.

After all of these steps, if you still aren't sure about your sodium levels, talk to your doctor. A simple blood test can tell him or her if you are at the right level for health.

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