Sodium plays an important role in the body. It is necessary for fluid balance and to maintain blood volume and blood pressure. Excessive sodium intake may lead to swelling and high blood pressure, especially in those with -- or at risk for -- heart disease. Following a low-sodium diet may help to lower blood pressure levels and reduce fluid retention. A low-sodium diet consists of less than 2 g of sodium per day.
Meet with Health Care Professionals
Step 1
Contact your physician to discuss the need for a low-sodium diet. Request a referral to a registered dietitian.
Step 2
Schedule an appointment with a registered dietitian. Prepare ahead for the appointment by keeping a food journal for at least two weekdays and one weekend day. The documentation of foods eaten throughout the day will allow the dietitian to help with the transition to a low-sodium diet.
Step 3
Meet with the dietitian. Discuss your diet and determine the best ways to incorporate a low-sodium diet into your daily life.
Implement Your Low-Sodium Diet
Step 1
Control the amount of added sodium in your diet. Avoid the use of table salt and condiments to limit "hidden" sodium content. One tsp. of salt contains 2,300 mg of sodium.
Step 2
Limit your intake of high-sodium foods including tomato sauce, deli meat, canned soups, canned vegetables, frozen meals, cheese and snack foods like potato chips and crackers. Opt for the low-sodium version of any packaged food, when given the option.
Step 3
Read nutrition labels. Nutrition labels are required to list sodium content on food packaging. A low-sodium product has less than 140 mg of sodium per serving.
Step 4
Choose healthy options that are naturally low in sodium. Fruit, vegetables, whole grains, lean meat, beans, legumes and nonfat dairy contain no added salt.
Step 5
Experiment with flavoring food. Use herbs and spices that are sodium-free to enhance the taste of your food.
Tips and Warnings
- Do not hesitate to contact a health care professional with questions regarding your diet. Go to your local library or bookstore, or search online for healthy low-sodium recipes. Many of your favorite dishes can be prepared in a low-sodium manner and still be tasty.
- Always speak to a health care professional prior to beginning a new diet. Not everyone is able to reduce blood pressure with diet alone.
Things You'll Need
- Appointment with physician
- Appointment with registered dietitian
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