Issue link: http://www.wacmagazine.com/i/105435
Wellness Tamela Thomas, Wellness Manager tamelat@wac.net 206.464.4639 Loving salt to death S tudy after study shows the dangers of our American love affair with salt. It has been estimated that by cutting the average American sodium consumption by 1,200 milligrams per day—that's about a half teaspoon of salt—we could prevent up to 99,000 heart attacks, 66,000 strokes, and save up to 92,000 lives a year. That is a huge public health payoff and matches what the U.S. would see if Americans cut their tobacco use in half. As part of its effort to improve our cardiovascular health, the American Heart Association is urging sodium reduction. The big message: Salt is sneaking into our diet at alarming rates. The following article gives you a starting place. If you would like to learn more, WAC Nutritionist Shana Hopkins works with members who want to further reduce sodium intake. Enjoy. 24 | Washington Athletic Club Magazine | FEBRUARY 2013 Pass (up) the salt Less sodium equals stronger heart S odium. It's an everyday meal offender that can make your face feel puffy and your jeans fit tighter. Did you know that by reducing your sodium intake during a three-week period you can change your sodium palate and start enjoying foods with less salt? February marks the American Heart Association's annual Heart Month, and now is a great time to recharge your taste buds and boost your heart health. The average American consumes about 3,400 milligrams of sodium a day—more than twice the 1,500 milligrams recommended by the American Heart Association. Changing your salty ways may be difficult, especially since you have acquired a taste for salt, but don't worry. Weaning yourself from salt is easier than you might think. With the help of the Salty Six—common foods often loaded with excess sodium that can increase your risk of heart disease—you'll be able to identify and keep track of the food culprits in your life.