For Your Health -
Shaking Off Sodium Contrary to what you might think,
sodium is a mineral that we all
need in our diets — but in limited
amounts. Sodium maintains proper
functioning of our nerves and muscles,
and helps balance the fluids in our bodies.
According to government data, however,
most of us take in an average of 3,400 milligrams
of sodium daily through our food
and drinks. That’s about double the amount
that the U.S. Dietary Guidelines (and many
experts) recommend as a daily limit, which
ranges from 1,500 to 2,400 milligrams.
For some people the extra sodium may
not have dire health consequences. For others,
it can cause an unhealthy strain on the
heart and the blood vessels. This strain can
lead to bigger problems such as high blood
pressure and heart disease. Because of these
risks, health professionals generally suggest
that we all try to trim our salt habits.
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