Sodium. What does that word mean to you? For some it means nothing and for others it affects their health. A diet low in sodium is good for everyone. It helps prevent high blood pressure and lessens the chance of other health ailments. When trying to cut down on your daily sodium intake, consider the list of foods below.
Fresh Vegetables: These are a great source of Vitamins and Minerals. You have a variety to choose from which keeps things fresh and new. Try broccoli, carrots, brussels sprouts, and snap peas.
Dry Cereal: This is a great idea for breakfast or snack! Cheerios is a prime example of something that is good all around for you. Also, rice and bran cereals are a good alternative. There is a wide variety to work with here, again keeping it fresh and new.
Fresh/Frozen/Canned Fruits: These are a great source of vitamins and minerals as well. They can make a meal in their selves or use them as snacks. Oranges are a great source of Vitamin C and help boost the immune system, which in turn helps keep you healthy.
Rice: This is a staple in any food culture. To ensure the fact it is indeed low sodium, avoid prepackaged rices with flavors and seasoning packets. Plain white rice and brown rice are your best choices. Rice is so versatile, it can go with virtually any meal.
Yogurt: This is where you can receive your main source of dairy. There is a huge variety of flavors and textures to choose from. Daily servings of yogurt is definitely recommended.
Beans/Lentils: This is a great source of protein. Also, to ensure keeping it low sodium do not boil or cook with salt. Beans can be added to rice to make a hearty meal as well.
Fresh Meat/Poultry: This is an important part of the recommendations. Try to avoid processed and breaded meat/poultry, it contains extra sodium you do not need. Fresh meat/poultry has to be incorporated into at least one meal everyday. Baked chicken would be an excellent source of your daily meat intake without overdoing it with the the sodium
Bread: This is also another tricky one. Being low sodium does depend on the amount of bread intake and the kind of bread. Four slices of white bread, which is equivalent to two sandwiches, is still considered low sodium.
Gelatin: This is the perfect snack while watching your intake. It comes in a variety of flavors and is simple and quick to prepare.
Nuts(unsalted): It is obvious that salted nuts do not qualify under the low sodium category, but nuts as a whole are not bad. You can mix them with the rice and beans for a flavor effect or eat them as a snack. They are also an excellent source of protein.
With this simple outline of some of the top low sodium foods, it is possible to live a low sodium lifestyle. Now get out there and start making some healthier choices and some meals with variety.
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