Sodium intake may be a primary factor in the development of high blood pressure, which is a major risk factor for heart attack and stroke. The risk of getting high blood pressure increases with age.

There is a good percentage of the general public who can be described as salt sensitive. This means that their blood pressures are likely to increase when they eat a high-sodium diet, and conversely, their blood pressures may be lowered by limiting dietary sodium.

Salt sensitivity is difficult to accurately diagnose. Therefore, appropriate sodium recommendations are a subject of debate among nutrition experts. Many believe that all people should limit their sodium intakes to either treat or prevent hypertension, regardless of their present blood pressure level. The latest United States dietary guidelines (2010) suggest that ideally no more than 2,300 mg/day of sodium be consumed. People with high blood pressure, people older than 50 years, African Americans, people with diabetes, and people with kidney disease should limit sodium intake to 1,500 mg/day.

A major study in this area is DASH—Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension. This study found that a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and low-fat dairy products, and low in saturated fat, cholesterol, and saturated fat—now called the DASH diet—helped lower blood pressure.

The second phase of the study found further reductions in blood pressure when the DASH diet was combined with a sodium intake of no more than 2,400 mg/day. The combination of DASH diet and a sodium intake of no more than 1,600 mg/day was as effective in controlling blood pressure as medication regimen involving a single antihypertensive drug. For some people with mild hypertension, diet alone may be an effective means of blood pressure control when the diet includes adequate calcium and potassium along with sodium restriction.

Here's How:

Sodium is found in many foods. Some are obvious, but others may surprise you.

Tips for Lowering Your Sodium Intake

• Read the nutrition label to find out how much sodium is in the foods you are purchasing.
• Gradually cut down on the amount of salt you use. Your taste buds will adjust to less salt.
• Taste your food before you salt it; it may not need more salt.
• Substitute flavorful ingredients for salt in cooking, such as garlic, oregano, lemon or lime juice, or other herbs, spices, and seasonings.
• Opt for fresh foods instead of processed foods. For example, select fresh or plain frozen vegetables and meats instead of those canned with salt.
• Look for low sodium, reduced sodium, or no salt added versions of your favorite foods
• Cook and eat at home. Adjust your recipes to gradually cut down on the amount of salt you use. If some of the ingredients already contain salt, such as canned soup, canned vegetables, or cheese, you do not need to add more salt.
• Cook rice, pasta, and hot cereals without salt or with less salt than the package calls for (try 1/8 teaspoon for two servings). Flavored rice, pasta, and cereal mixes generally already contain added salt.
• When dining out, order a low-salt meal or ask the chef not to add salt to your meal.
• Limit your use of condiments, such as soy sauce, dill pickles, salad dressings, and packaged sauces.

Making dietary changes takes time. Start slowly and find what works best for you. When you find the right combination, you will be able to decrease the amount of salt you consume.