For many, there are several reasons to cut back on sodium. Cutting back means reducing the strain on your heart and blood vessels, helping you maintain overall healthy blood pressure levels. If you have a high sodium intake, that means your kidneys are usually overworked. So, what are some hidden sources of sodium that sneak into your diet without you knowing?
5. Cereal
Starting off the day with cereal is easy, but there are many reasons why you might want to replace your favorite bowl with something else. Even the products that say they’re healthy, like cornflakes or wheat cereal, have a surprising amount of salt to enhance the flavor. Some cereals contain between 250 to 300 milligrams of salt per serving, like Special K cereal. Most cereal has a shocking sodium amount, but is ignored when looking at the vitamins, fiber, and even protein, as well as its stress-free nature.
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4. Sports Drinks
Sports drinks, like Gatorade and Powerade, are marketed to replenish electrolytes and hydrate after exercise. But to do this, the drink has to contain a high amount of sodium. Sodium is, unfortunately, needed to replenish lost electrolytes; therefore, many drinks contain 200 milligrams per serving, which can contribute to high sodium intake if you regularly drink them. Instead of opting for these drinks, drink water or even coconut water, which is great for staying hydrated.
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3. Ready-to-Eat Salads
Another item on the list that is believed to be for their convenience and ease, yet hides a surprising amount of sodium, is ready-to-eat salads. How often do you run to the store real fast and grab a salad, maybe even a side of fruit or boiled eggs, when you have a busy day? By doing this, you’re likely consuming 300 to an extraordinary 700 milligrams of sodium in one sitting. Some options, like Marketside Avocado Ranch at Walmart, are merely 200 milligrams, while others, like this Caesar Salad with Chicken, are a shocking 770.
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2. Bread
Bread is another one of the hidden sources of sodium you didn’t know about. Unfortunately, bread is a staple in many diets around the world, but that doesn’t mean its sodium levels should be ignored. Many popular brands like Sara Lee offer one slice of bread worth 200 milligrams of sodium. Most bread and bakery items contain high amounts to help with flavor, and because of added preservatives, but you don’t usually expect this because it doesn’t taste salty.
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1. Cheese
Unfortunately, cheese is another one of the hidden sources of sodium that you need to keep an eye out on. Cheese is a beloved staple everywhere for numerous dishes, with many people adding cheese to every meal in some way. Sadly, it contains a decent amount of sodium. Some cheeses, like feta, can contain over 300 milligrams per ounce. While it’s hard to reduce the amount consumed, try smaller amounts of stronger cheeses to help combat high sodium intake.