00:00 You may have heard to avoid sodium for a variety of reasons,
00:03 but the truth is it's not all bad,
00:05 and our bodies actually need some sodium to stay healthy.
00:08 Let's get into the internet's most asked questions
00:10 about sodium, plus how to keep your intake
00:13 at a healthy level.
00:14 Sodium is actually an essential mineral
00:16 that our bodies need to thrive.
00:18 It's one of six electrolytes that our body uses
00:20 to maintain fluid balance, move nutrients in and out
00:23 of our cells, and it helps our muscles, nerves,
00:26 and organs function properly.
00:28 Over time, excess sodium,
00:30 along with inadequate potassium intake,
00:32 can lead to high blood pressure
00:33 and increased heart disease risk.
00:35 Anyone at a higher risk for heart disease
00:38 should consider a low-sodium diet.
00:40 This includes those with high blood pressure,
00:42 type 2 diabetes, or those with a family history
00:45 of heart disease or chronic disease.
00:48 The Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommends
00:50 consuming no more than 2,300 milligrams of sodium per day.
00:54 Here's a list of low-sodium diet foods.
00:57 Fruits and vegetables, grains, protein,
01:00 dairy, healthy fats.
01:02 When it comes to what you choose at the grocery store,
01:04 it's best to limit very high-sodium foods
01:07 like hot dogs, ham, pickles, salted nuts or snack packs,
01:12 condiments, prepared sauces, chips or pretzels,
01:15 and vegetable juice.
01:16 In conclusion, eating a low-sodium diet
01:18 doesn't have to feel like a drag,
01:20 and there are several ways to make it really delicious,
01:22 but cooking more at home and getting creative
01:24 with herbs and spices are great places to start.
01:27 I hope this helped you understand sodium a little better,
01:29 and thanks for watching.
01:30 (upbeat music)
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