Most Americans eat too much salt (sodium), which can lead to high blood pressure and other health problems. The biggest culprit is not your saltshaker, but frequently consumed processed foods that are high in sodium. The best way to cut back on sodium is to choose fresh foods instead of processed foods. If you do eat processed foods, where should you look first to cut back on salt? The answer may surprise you. This top 10 list* of food sources of sodium in the U.S. diet is a good place to start. The list is based on the combination of each item's sodium content and its frequency of consumption. Choose carefully when buying foods in these categories and/or eat less of these items:

1. Meat pizza
2. White bread
3. Processed cheese
4. Hot dogs
5. Spaghetti with sauce
6. Ham
7. Catsup
8. Cooked rice
9. White rolls
10. Flour tortillas

*Source: Grocery Manufacturers Association
For more tips you can use to cut back on sodium when you cook at home, shop in the supermarket, or choose a meal at your favorite restaurant, read the new section of The Nutrition Source website dedicated to helping you control sodium in your diet. According to a recent report released by the Institute of Medicine, almost all Americans need to cut back on sodium -- so these tips will benefit the whole family.


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