It's impossible to find foods that are completely sodium-free. Even naturally occurring foods contain trace amounts of sodium.
Sodium is an essential mineral that plays a vital role in maintaining fluid balance, nerve and muscle function, and blood pressure regulation. It's naturally present in many foods, including:
- Fruits and vegetables: While generally low in sodium, they contain small amounts.
- Meat and poultry: These contain naturally occurring sodium.
- Dairy products: Milk, cheese, and yogurt all have some sodium content.
- Grains: Whole grains like brown rice and quinoa contain small amounts of sodium.
However, the sodium content in these foods is typically low.
The main sources of excess sodium in our diets are processed foods, restaurant meals, and added salt during cooking. These foods often contain significant amounts of sodium, which can contribute to high blood pressure and other health problems.
Therefore, focusing on consuming whole, unprocessed foods and limiting processed foods and added salt is key to managing sodium intake.
