Tips for Using Less Salt

Most people with heart problems need to eat less salt (sodium). Reducing the amount of salt you eat may help control your blood pressure. The higher your blood pressure, the greater your risk for heart disease, stroke, blindness, and kidney problems.

At the Store

• Make low-salt choices by reading labels carefully. Look for the total amount of sodium per serving.

• Use more fresh food. Buy more fruits and vegetables. Select lean meats, fish, and poultry.

• Use less frozen, canned, and packaged foods. These often contain a lot of sodium.

In the Kitchen

• Don't add salt to food when you're cooking. Season with flavorings such as onion, garlic, pepper, and lemon.

• Use a cookbook containing low-salt recipes. It can give you ideas for tasty meals that are healthy for your heart.

• Sprinkle salt-free herbal blends on vegetables and meat.

Eating Out

• Tell the waiter you're on a low-salt diet. Ask questions about the menu.

• Order fish, chicken, and meat broiled, baked, poached, or grilled without salt, butter, or breading.

• Use lemon, pepper, and salt-free herb mixes to add flavor.

• Choose plain steamed rice, boiled noodles, and baked or boiled potatoes. Top potatoes with chives and a little sour cream.