A lot of processed foods contain sodium for a variety of reasons. Processed foods and similar products have sodium for two primary purposes: preservation and taste. Thus, if the food is more processed, it is likely that the sodium content is higher.
Are processed foods low in sodium?
Although sodium occurs naturally, much of it is added during the processing and preparation of foods. Sodium levels in canned, processed foods can be high.
What unprocessed foods is high in sodium?
Meats and Seafood
According to MayoClinic.com, dairy products, meats, shellfish and vegetables contain the highest amount of natural sodium. Among these foods, ham meat has one of the highest sodium contents.
What foods dont have sodium?
- Fresh and frozen vegetables (without sauces): Greens, broccoli, cauliflower, peppers, etc.
- Fresh, frozen or dried fruits: Berries, apples, bananas, pears, etc.
- Grains and beans: Dried beans, brown rice, farro, quinoa and whole wheat pasta.
What food can you buy with low-sodium?
- Fresh or frozen fish or shellfish.
- Chicken or turkey breast without skin or marinade.
- Lean cuts of beef or pork.
- Unsalted nuts and seeds.
- Dried beans, peas, and lentils — like black beans and garbanzo beans (chickpeas)
Is there sodium in fresh vegetables?
Fresh and frozen fruits and vegetables generally contain low amounts of sodium. For example, a half-cup serving of beets gives you just 65 milligrams of sodium while boosting your health with iron, potassium, and folate.
How do I reduce my sodium intake?
Buy fresh, frozen, or canned vegetables with no salt or sauce added. Choose packaged foods labeled “low sodium,” “reduced sodium,” or “no salt added” when available. Read food labels and compare the amount of sodium in different products, then choose the options with the lowest amounts of sodium.
How much sodium is too much?
The American Heart Association recommends no more than 2,300 milligrams (mg) a day and moving toward an ideal limit of no more than 1,500 mg per day for most adults.
References:
- https://www.medicinenet.com/what_foods_should_you_avoid_on_a_low-sodium_diet/article.htm
- https://healthyeating.sfgate.com/there-foods-naturally-salty-3389.html
- https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/low-sodium-diet
- https://health.gov/myhealthfinder/topics/health-conditions/heart-health/lower-sodium-foods-shopping-list
- https://www.webmd.com/diet/foods-high-in-sodium
- https://www.cdc.gov/salt/reduce_sodium_tips.htm
- https://www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/healthy-eating/eat-smart/sodium/how-much-sodium-should-i-eat-per-day