Restricted Salt Diet

Sodium is the body's chief electrolyte. It plays a significant role in the maintenance of fluid electrolyte balance at the cellular level. Many organ systems such as muscular system, nervous system are associated with the electrolytic function of sodium. Sodium is predominantly found in the fluid connective tissue blood and lymph. Sodium helps in the regulation of blood pressure and blood volume.

The adrenal glands help in the regulation of sodium levels in the body through the hormone aldosterone. The predominant source of sodium is obtained in the form of sodium chloride also known as common salt. The other sources include food products containing sodium carbonate.

In addition to these sources, medications such as laxatives, anti-inflammatory drugs of non-steroidal origin and also antacids contain high amounts of sodium concentrations.

Those suffering from hypertension or kidney problems are often prescribed a low sodium diet. It is indeed not so difficult to follow a restricted salt diet. Look up our helpful tips.

Processed foods

Processed foods contain increased amount of sodium to enhance the taste and also to act as preservative. The types of preservatives may include sodium carbonate, monosodium glutamate, sodium benzoate and sodium nitrate. For many economic reasons, sodium is included in processed foods to increase the shelf life of the product. Other reasons for this are to prevent the growth of food associated pathogens.

Recommended quantity of sodium intake

The recommended intake of sodium under restricted sodium intake is 2 grams or 2,400 milligrams. Examine the label on packaged foods or processed foods for sodium concentration. Fresh foods are recommended over processed foods for added health benefits. Eating habits have to be continuously monitored along with the lifestyle.

Complications of high sodium intake

High sodium levels in the body can lead to many health complications, according to the American Heart Association. Research pertaining to this subject has unveiled many critical health scenarios which were based on the increased sodium intake. Health complications related to increased sodium intake include hypertension, congestive heart failure, cirrhosis of liver, renal disease etc.

Hypertension related to high sodium intake is due to increased water absorption and fluid retention by the kidneys. Another risk factor related to this condition is with diabetic patients. Apart from these conditions hypertension related to high sodium intake is more prevalent among individuals who have lifestyles associated with alcohol consumption, lack of exercise, obesity and also stress eating.

Foods containing high sodium content

Packaged foods such as pastas, potato chips, snacks, crackers, instant soup preparations and baked items are predominant sources of high sodium content. In addition to these, canned foods, pickles, ketchups, milk products such as cheese, butter milk, processed dairy products also contain high sodium concentrations. Meat products such as salami, bacon, dried meat, soaked meat, smoked meat and fish, salad dressings contain high percentage of sodium.

Restricted sodium diet

• Remove the salt shaker from the dining area.
  
  
• Avoid the use of monosodium glutamate and soy sauce.
  
  
• Check labels carefully while shopping; especially for pasta sauces, canned vegetables and cereals.
  
  
• Balance your diet with potassium rich foods.
  
  
• Choose fresh foods over processed or packaged foods.
  
  
• Rinse canned or frozen foods before using them. Canned tuna, frozen vegetables etc are best drained and rinsed before steaming or boiling.
  
  
• Use herbs and spices to create interesting flavors with restricted salt.
  
  
• Instant foods or convenience foods are often high in sodium. Look for low sodium brands.