The biggest source of sodium in the American diet is processed foods.
Processed foods often contain high amounts of sodium to enhance flavor, preserve shelf life, and improve texture. This includes:
- Ready-to-eat meals: Frozen dinners, microwaveable meals, and pre-packaged meals often have high sodium content.
- Canned soups and vegetables: Canned goods often contain added sodium for preservation.
- Fast food: Burgers, fries, and other fast food items are often high in sodium.
- Salty snacks: Chips, pretzels, and other salty snacks contribute significantly to sodium intake.
- Bread: Many commercially baked breads contain added sodium.
- Processed meats: Deli meats, hot dogs, and sausages are often high in sodium.
While some sodium naturally occurs in foods, processed foods are the primary contributor to excessive sodium intake.
It's important to be mindful of sodium content when choosing foods and to opt for fresh, minimally processed options whenever possible.
