Eating a low-sodium diet is one of the best ways to control high blood pressure, reduce your risk for heart disease, and ensure overall good health. We understand how hard it can be to find the right low-sodium food options, so we’ve compiled a list of some of the best low-sodium choices. From fresh produce to packaged foods, all of these choices are sure to help you stay healthy and full.
Low-Sodium Produce
Start with fresh fruits and vegetables, as just about all of them are low-sodium foods. Make sure you focus on fresh foods, though; some canned fruits and vegetables contain added salt, so always read the nutrition label and check for sodium content first. Popular low-sodium produce items include apples, bananas, broccoli, carrots, potatoes, spinach, sweet potatoes, and tomatoes.
Low-Sodium Meats & Alternatives
When adding meat and poultry to your low-sodium diet, opt for fresh or frozen products that are labeled as “no added salt” or “low-sodium.” You can also find deli meats that are labeled as low-sodium and sodium-free. A few good choices would be industry-made sausage, bacon, ham and rotisserie chicken, but as always, read the nutrition label first to make sure you’re getting the most out of your product.
Low-Sodium Grains & Other Carbohydrates
Most grains, such as oats, quinoa, and barley, are relatively low in sodium. However, some foods, such as chips, pretzels, popcorn, and crackers, are very high in sodium, so it’s best to easily limit or avoid these items. When adding bread and rice to your meal plan, be sure to read the nutrition label and look for the sodium content. Also, keep an eye out for sodium-free pastas, which are just as delicious as the regular types.
Low-Sodium Canned Goods
While canned goods can be convenient and inexpensive, they can also be very high in sodium. Aim for canned goods that are low in sodium and contain no added salt. Good items include canned fruits, vegetables, beans, and sauces. These options can add variety to your meal plan while also fitting perfectly into your low-sodium diet.
Low-Sodium Snack Choices
Snacks can be a great way to keep hunger at bay, satisfy your taste buds, and add variety to your meal plan. Look for snacks that are low in sodium and contain no added salts, such as pretzels, dry roasted edamame, roasted nuts and seeds, fresh fruit, and fresh vegetables. If you’re looking for something sweet, try a sodium-free cookie, or make your own low-sodium snack mix with dried fruits, nuts, and seeds.
