Skip out on high-sodium foods

An assortment of high sodium snacks (crackers, pretzels) on top of a green plate.

For almost half a century now, health organizations, health professionals, researchers and government agencies have recommended that we reduce our sodium intake to lower the risk of developing high blood pressure, which is a proven risk factor for heart disease and stroke. But the call for slashing sodium intake has not been taken to heart, […]

Top 10 sources of sodium in food

Wooden kitchen cabinet full of food products

The 2015-2020 Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommend that Americans consume less than 2,300 milligrams of sodium per day — yet most of us get far more sodium in a day than that. And while you might assume that a lot of the extra salt we consume comes from having a too-liberal hand with the salt […]

How much sodium do you need?

Salt shaker with crumbled salt on a black background top view

Your blood pressure shouldn’t be your only consideration when it comes to figuring out how much sodium you should be consuming. Here’s what to keep in mind: 1. Your age. Salt sensitivity, the likelihood that sodium will raise your blood pressure, increases with age. While slightly over a third of 45-year-olds have hypertension, that number […]

Four new rules for staying hydrated

Beer bottles on ice

During the heat of summer, staying hydrated is even more important, especially if you’re exercising outdoors. While plain water should still be your everyday go-to, try a few of these strategies as well. Chill before you sweat. If you’re looking to set a new record in that 10K or sprint triathlon, slurp an ice slurry, […]