(HealthDay News) -- Sodium can contribute to high blood pressure, which raises your risk for heart attack and stroke.
The National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute offers these suggestions for a lower-sodium diet:
- Choose fresh, lean meats, poultry, and fish instead of processed versions.
- Skip the salt and use fresh herbs, spices, and low- or no-salt seasonings.
- Stick to fresh or frozen vegetables instead of canned. If you do choose canned, look for "no salt added" versions, or rinse vegetables before use.
- Don't add salt to the water when cooking rice or pasta. Also, avoid instant versions of these foods.
- Stay away from pre-packaged foods that are often high in sodium, such as frozen meals, pizzas, canned soups and foods, and packed food mixes.
