Caution ! Sodium

It is essential as to the body, its excess is high, thanks to many foods that we consume daily that are rich in it. High levels of Sodium can cause multiple diseases including hypertension (high blood pressure) and heart problems. Hypertension is the leading cause of heart failure worldwide and heart failure is one of the leading causes of death. Sodium retains fluid in the body and increases the amount of fluid that may accumulate in different body parts causing swelling and even kidney damage in the long run.read

The amount of Sodium you need per day differs depending on some factors, most importantly is the amount of sweat you produce, which in turn depends on where you live.

People living in hot weather need more sodium, since a large portion of it is lost in sweat. On average, you need no more than 2 grams of Sodium per day, which is equivalent to only one tablespoon of salt, while some organizations including the American Heart Association has set the amount to as little as 1 and a half grams. Americans eat a lot of bread and it is one of the top sources of sodium in the US diet.

The amount of Sodium you need per day differs depending on some factors, most importantly is the amount of sweat you produce, which in turn depends on where you live. People living in hot weather need more Sodium, since a large portion of it is lost in sweat. On average, you need no more than 2 grams of Sodium per day, which is equivalent to only one tablespoon of salt, while some organizations including the American Heart Association has set the amount to as little as 1 and a half grams.

Popular unprocessed foods that have high amounts of this mineral include deli meat, tortillas, and canned goods. Most people suffering from diseases caused by too much sodium did not get it from excessive use of the salt shaker or home-cooked meals. Rather, the mentioned snacks are to blame for exceeding these daily recommendations.