Excessive dietary sodium consumption increases blood pressure, which increases the risk for stroke, coronary heart disease, heart failure, and renal disease. The US Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC) reports that 90% of Americans consume more that the recommended daily amount of sodium, much of it originating from processed foods. CDC determined an average of a mere 9.6% of the total population consumed sodium within the recommended limits. Among specific groups urged not to surpass 1,500mg of sodium a day due to specific health concerns, only 5.5% adhered to recommended daily limits. CDC writes that: “Food manufacturers and retailers can reduce sodium content in processed and restaurant foods, public health professionals and health-care providers can implement sodium reduction strategies and educate consumers about sodium, and consumers can modify their eating habits.”
Salt Warning from US Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC)
With an estimated 77% of sodium in the American diet originating from processed foods, CDC warns that 90% of American population consumes more than the recommended daily amount of sodium.
Peralez Gunn, EV Kuklina, NL Keenan, DR Labarthe, Div for Heart Disease and Stroke Prevention, National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, CDC. “Sodium Intake Among Adults -- United States, 2005−2006.” Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report, June 25, 2010; 59(24);746-749.
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