Sources of Sodium That May Surprise You

It is well known that the recommended sodium intake (from the Dietary Guidelines for Americans) should be less than 2,300 mg per day. It is also known that especially about half of the U.S. population and the majority of adults people 51 and older and those of any age who are African Americans or who have high blood pressure,
diabetes, or chronic kidney disease, the sodium intake should be further reduced to 1,500 mg per day. The problem is that there are sources of sodium you could never expect. Here are a few of them:

• More than 75% of the sodium Americans eat comes from restaurant, prepackaged, and processed foods.
• Breads and rolls, cold cuts/cured meats, and pizza are top contributors of sodium in the American diet.
• One slice of bread for example can contain anywhere from 80 to 230 mg of sodium or
• One fast food restaurant made cheeseburger, can contain from 710 to 1,690 mg.

 There are many sources of sodium that may surprise you. Having accurate information about where dietary salt comes from can help you protect your health. Discover them by visiting  www.cdc.gov/salt/pdfs/Sources_of_Sodium.pdf.