Are You Getting Too Much Salt?

Most of us get more than we need. Recommendations from the American Heart Association and the U.S. government range from 1,500 to 2,300 milligrams of sodium a day. If you want to cut back, you need to do more than ease up on the shaker on your table. Watch what you eat. You may be shocked by some of the foods that are high in salt.

Frozen Dinners

They’re quick. They’re easy. And they’re loaded with sodium. A 5-ounce frozen turkey and gravy dinner packs 1,255 milligrams.

Tip: A “lighter” version may have less salt, but it’s no guarantee. Read the labels to be sure. It’s possible that “lighter” refers to fat only.

Ready-to-Eat Cereals

Check out the nutrition facts label. Some brands of raisin bran have up to 210 milligrams of sodium in each cup.

Tip: Puffed rice and wheat don’t have salt. Mix half of your favorite cereal with half of a salt-free choice. Or look for companies that make low-sodium cereals.

Vegetable Juices

They help you get the 2 to 2.5 cups of veggies you need a day. But they can have a lot of sodium. One cup of vegetable juice cocktail has 615 milligrams.

Tip: Shop around. There are low-salt versions.

Canned Vegetables

They often have preservatives, sauces, or seasonings that add extra sodium.

Tips: Rinse canned veggies thoroughly, or look for labels that say “no salt added” or “low sodium.” Check the freezer section, where you may have more luck finding an unsalted choice.