Sodium is a necessary element that our bodies need to maintain proper functioning. Sodium, potassium, magnesium and chloride are known as electrolytes in our bodies that allow cells, nerves and muscles to 'talk' to each other. However, too much salt can have negative effects and cause dehydration and elevated blood pressure. Excessive sodium intake is generally associated with a diet high in packaged, processed foods because salt increases shelf life.

In 2011, the FDA altered their salt recommendations.

• Less than 2,300 mg for all Americans.
• No more than 1,500 mg for those who are:
• older than 51
• African American
• have hypertension, diabetes or chronic kidney disease.

Your Challenge: eliminating processed foods that have more than 10 ingredients on the label.

Fooducate
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USDA 2010 Dietary Guidelines, released January 2011. Find recommendations on everything health and nutrition-related.

Top 20 Sources of Sodium in the American Diet from the folks at Fooducate.