A low sodium diet helps control blood pressure, water accumulation and swelling. It may also be helpful in reducing respiratory problems that occurs when the heart is weakened by certain medical condition.
Some of the most common food products that are high in sodium are soy sauces, salad dressings, baking soda, baking powder, barbecue sauce, salts, garlic, onion salt, lemon pepper and softeners meat. Meat and cured and smoked meat, including ham, bacon, corned beef and sausages are high in salt. Products pickled foods are also good sources of sodium. Avoid these foods, if you are suffering from health problems caused by high sodium intake and make a diet chart that includes only low sodium products. Some food products that are low in sodium.
- Fresh fruits, lean meats, vegetables, unprocessed grains, fish, poultry, spices and some lemon pepper and hot sauces are low in sodium.
- Dried or fresh herbs, onion powder, cloves, cumin, ginger and basil can be taken to increase the spicy flavor instead of salt.
- Macaroni, rice, barley, pasta and noodles can be taken in salt form.
- Increase the use of honey, butter, unsalted cheese, fresh lamb or egg.
- Skim milk and yogurt should be taken regularly.
Tips to reduce the sodium in the diet are
- Read the salt content on the labels of different products to select from a store. Include foot containing a low amount of sodium.
- Use salt substitutes after receiving instruction from your doctor.
- Use a number of herbs for flavor instead of salt.
- Eat home-cooked meals to reduce sodium intake.
- Reduce your intake of foods with high sodium content written on the labels. For example, baking powder has a sodium content. There are many other chemicals and preservatives in food products that may contain sodium.
- Avoid the use of medications that have a high salt content.
- Do not drink water that has a high amount of salt. Use soft water for drinking.
- Ask for low-sodium diet when outside dining, and no objects with salt and pepper sprinkled on them.
N.B. – Always try to keep a blood pressure monitor at your home or your own safety.