Nearly all Americans consume much more sodium (salt) than they should, according to a report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Most of the salt comes from common restaurant or grocery store items.

The CDC finds that 10 types of foods are responsible for more than 40 percent of people's sodium intake. The most common sources are breads and rolls, luncheon meat such as deli ham or turkey, pizza, poultry, soups, cheeseburgers and other sandwiches, cheese, pasta dishes, meat dishes such as meat loaf, and snack foods such as potato chips, pretzels and popcorn. Some foods that are consumed several times a day, such as bread, add up to a lot of sodium even though each serving is not high in sodium.

"Too much salt raises blood pressure, which is a major risk factor for heart disease and stroke," says Foxhall Internists'

Dr. David Hansen.   

The CDC's report notes that the average person consumes about 3,300 milligrams of sodium per day, not including any salt added at the table, which is more than twice the recommended limit for about half of Americans and 6 of every 10 adults. The U.S. Dietary Guidelines recommend limiting sodium intake to less than 2,300 milligrams per day. The recommendation is 1,500 milligrams per day for people aged 51 and older, African Americans, and anyone with high blood pressure, diabetes, and chronic kidney disease.

You can lower your sodium intake by eating a diet rich in fresh or frozen fruits and vegetables without sauce, while limiting the amount of processed foods with added sodium. You can also check grocery food labels and choose the products lowest in sodium. 

To learn more about ways to reduce sodium, visit www.cdc.gov/salt. You should also consult with your physician during your next appoinment.