Low sodium diets lower blood pressure, improve heart function and reduce fluid retention. A low-sodium diet is made up of foods that contain only a small amount of sodium. It is impossible to create an absolutely sodium free diet. The amount of salt allowed in a low-sodium diet is 250 to 1,000 mg /day. The allowed amount of sodium in a moderate low sodium diet is about 2,000 mg/ 2 g/day. A regular diet, on the other hand, with no salt added, contains 3 to 5 g of sodium. Any diet in which the amount of sodium is seriously reduced has potential side effects. The person who is on a low sodium diet must be watched carefully for symptoms like complaints of weakness, anorexia, nausea, disorientation, cramps, and aching muscles. A low sodium diet can cause an electrolyte imbalance and have serious consequences.

A low sodium diet is beneficial for people who complain of conditions such as gastritis, hyperacidity and haemorrhoids. The diet also allows for a greater food selection than other restrictive diets. Remember that sodium is important to the body as it helps regulate the balance of body fluids. Excess sodium can cause the body to retain too much water. This can be harmful for people with high blood pressure or heart disease and reducing the sodium content in your diet can often control these conditions. For many, limiting the total amount of sodium to 4 grams a day is enough to reduce fluid retention.

Table salt is the main source of sodium for people. It is used in the kitchen to prepare the food we eat and then again it is added at the table. It is also added to many canned and frozen foods. Sodium occurs naturally in many foods, and some foods contain more sodium than others.

Sodium compounds, in addition to table salt, are often added to processed foods. Some of the more common are baking soda, monosodium glutamate, baking powder, disodium phosphate and sodium benzoate. Make sure you read all the labels before using any products.

Many medications also contain sodium compounds that are added by the manufacturer. Some of the products, which contain sodium, are: antacids, laxatives and cough remedies. Check with your physician or pharmacist about prescription or over-the-counter medications that contain sodium compounds.

Avoid fast food restaurants. The food served tends to have very high sodium content. When eating out, ask the waiter/waitress that no salt be added in the preparation of the food.

Why not replace salt with herbs and spices to add flavour and to your meals.

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Information on this site is provided for informational purposes and is not meant to substitute for the advice provided by your own physician or dietitian. Information and statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

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