Salt... Less is More!

Recommendations about salt intake are often given in milligrams (mg). However, how does that translate into practical terms?

Note: there are some variations by source.

- Those with high blood pressure (or risk factors, family history, sensitivity, etc.): 1,200 - 1,500mg per day.

1,200mg sodium = 1/2 teaspoon salt (yes, the little spoon; AHA)

1,500mg sodium = 3/4 teaspoon salt (still the little spoon; CSU)

- The maximum recommended per day: 2,300mg.

2,300mg sodium = 1 teaspoon salt (yes, the little spoon; AHA)

(The AHA thinks this is too much, even for healthy people.)

For more info, check out:

- http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/hbp/prevent/sodium/sodium.htm

- http://www.ext.colostate.edu/pubs/foodnut/09354.html

- http://www.heart.org