Recently, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported that a staggering 88% of Americans consume more than the recommended daily value of sodium. Current dietary guidelines recommend that adults consume less than 2,300 mg of sodium a day.
People over 50, African Americans, or those with high blood pressure, diabetes or chronic kidney disease should consume even less—1,500 mg a day. However, according to the CDC, the average sodium intake among Americans is 3,513 mg—53% more than the recommended limit.
A diet with too much salt can lead to high blood pressure, heart attacks and strokes. While you may not reach for the salt shaker regularly, many processed, packaged foods contain shocking amounts of sodium.
Read on for a list of high-sodium foods that many Americans consume daily – they may surprise you! Some brands are higher in sodium than others, so read labels carefully when shopping.
- Canned soups and vegetables
- Packaged baked goods, such as muffins
- Pickles
- Frozen dinner entrees
- Cake mix
- Frozen Pizza
- Salad dressing
- American cheese slices
- Pumpernickel bread
- Ketchup
- Cereal
- Pasta sauce
- Veggie burgers
- Beef Jerky
- Bagels
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