Control Your Sodium
Sodium-loaded foods are everywhere. The American Heart Association tells us that more than 70% of the sodium we eat comes from packaged and restaurant foods. And even if you don’t reach for the saltshaker, you’re probably getting more sodium than you need. 9 out of 10 Americans consume too much of it.
Large amounts of sodium in our diets increase our risk of:
- Enlarged heart muscle
- Heart Failure
- High blood pressure
Today, your goal is twofold: First, become more aware of your sodium intake by reading nutritional labels. Second, build your meals and snacks around healthier, less processed options, like:
- Fresh fruits and vegetables
- Low-fat dairy products
- Unsalted nuts and legumes
- Skinless poultry and fish
- Whole grains
Do what you can today to make it a low sodium day. Do it for your heart! Need an idea for a low sodium meal tonight? Try this recipe for Chicken Zucchini Enchiladas.
Share your experiences with us during the challenge in our challenge update thread here, in our private Facebook group, or on Twitter, or Instagram. Tag us with #healthynurse!
Find this helpful? Use the social media links on the left side of your page to share it with a nurse and invite them to join Healthy Nurse, Healthy Nation! Want to invite others to receive text messages with these tips? Ask them to text healthynurse to 52886.
Missed day 1? Catch up here. Join us on day 3.
Sponsored by Support from Morrison Healthcare, A Division of Compass One Healthcare