Health Tip: Reduce Salt in Your Diet

(HealthDay News) -- Salt that is added to foods or found naturally in many things can contribute to high blood pressure and other cardiovascular problems.

You shouldn''t consume more than 2,400 milligrams per day, the Henry Ford Health System says.

Avoid foods that are high in salt (often called sodium on package labels), including chips, crackers, pickles and olives. Instead, choose fresh vegetables, meats and low-salt snacks to lower your salt intake. When buying prepackaged foods, look for foods that are low-sodium or sodium-free.

Prepare foods at home using salt-free seasonings or a salt substitute, and skip adding salt when you can. Also avoid preparing foods such as pasta in salted water.

-- Diana Kohnle

Last Updated: Sept. 13, 2006