## Why do we eat too much salt? Even when trying to monitor the amount of salt in their diet, people mostly consider only the salt they add to their dishes. However, the food we buy in stores has significantly added salt. Often, high salt content is hidden in foods we do not consider salty. Foods with some of the highest salt content include the following: - Meats (beef, ham, bacon, sausage) - Canned fish and vegetables - Bouillon cubes - Prepared snacks (chips, nuts, popcorn, crackers, etc.) - Salad dressings and sauces (ketchup, soy sauce, mayonnaise, etc.) - Bread - Convenience foods - Cheese (especially processed cheese) > Salt is a source of sodium, which the body needs to function properly. However, excess increases blood pressure, which is a health risk. ## How to limit salt in your diet - Choose ===fresh foods instead of salty and processed foods. - Eat more fruits and vegetables. Avoid convenience, pizza, fast food, ready-made mixes, canned soups, and processed meats (sausage, hams, bacon). Buy fresh meat or fish instead of pickled, smoked, or canned. - Read labels. Pay attention to information about the composition of foods. Choose foods labeled "low sodium" or "no added salt." - Add more herbs and spices. Use herbs, spices, lemon, lime, vinegar, or seasoning blends instead of salt or salty sauces. - Cook your food. This helps you know exactly how much salt you put in a dish. Do not salt food while cooking; it is better to do it before serving. - Be careful with sauces. Generally, sauces sold in grocery stores contain significant amounts of salt. Among the "leaders" are ketchup, barbecue, soy sauce, and teriyaki.