Salt and Cardiovascular Risk

Call to Action

This lesson reviews the link between salt intake and cardiovascular risk. It provides the push needed to break off the love affair with salt and embrace a healthier relationship.

  • Eat better—pledge to reduce sodium.

 

EmPOWERED to Serve Health Lesson – Break Up With Excess Sodium | Our bodies need some salt for normal functioning. However, if you’re like most Americans, you’re probably getting much more than your body needs (even if you never pick up the salt shaker). Over time, this can damage your heart and blood vessels. It can even put you at risk for heart attack and stroke. So, kiss excess salt goodbye! And, be assured that even with less sodium, food can still be full of flavor.

Written by American Heart Association editorial staff and reviewed by science and medicine advisors. See our editorial policies and staff.

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Get the Scoop on Sodium

Did You Know?

  • Nine out of 10 Americans consume too much sodium.
  • Sodium added to food outside the home accounts for more than two-thirds of total sodium intake in the U.S.
  • More than 70% of sodium consumed is from processed, packaged and restaurant foods.

Learn how to cut sodium from your daily cooking.

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