Salt consumption has been found to have a large positive correlation with obesity and heart disease. Salty foods are usually fried or snack foods, neither of which have any nutritional benefit and are high in saturated fat. Therefore, their high sodium content is just one of the factors in an unhealthy diet. Salt is needed for the body to function, but extreme levels lead to dire circumstances.
Effects of Salt
Salt is just one of the many factors that leads to obesity and heart disease, since an over consumption of salt means that you have an unhealthy diet. Salty processed foods are usually high in saturated fat, which increases the amount of cholesterol and triglycerides in the blood stream. Saturated fat also increases insulin resistance. Some studies have found that an increase in salt causes an increase in thirst, and most Americans consume high sugar beverages, adding extra calories to the diet.
Salt Intake Management
The best way to manage your salt intake is to read labels and avoid very salty foods. An item should not contain more than 300mg of salt and a mixed dish should not contain more that 600mg of salt per day. Soups, canned foods and frozen dishes must be carefully monitored. Rinse canned foods, make your own soup, and purchase no added salt or low sodium options. Also, carefully choose frozen meals. Avoid salty fried foods, excessive amounts of condiments and processed snack foods.
Excess Salt Consumption
Excessive consumption of salt can lead to hypertension, high blood pressure, obesity, heart disease, congestive heart failure and increase the decline of other secondary diseases. Salt intake leads to the constriction of blood vessels, which causes increased stress on the vessels and vessels in each organ. Excess salt disturbs the balance of electrolytes in the body, causing the body to increase the need for water. This leads to water retention.
Change Your Lifestyle
The new dietary guidelines suggest consuming at most 2300mg of salt per day for most Americans. But if you are over 51 years of age, African American, have heart disease, diabetes, kidney disease or other health conditions, only consume 1500mg of salt per day. Read labels, decrease processed foods, stay hydrated, prepare your own meals, and consume raw fruits and vegetables. Grill, bake, roast, or saute foods, and avoid using the salt shaker.
