Salt is important for your body to function normally, helping to maintain normal blood, blood pressure, and nerve and muscle functions. The average American consumes one to three teaspoons daily while you need only one teaspoon of salt from all sources.

Sodium chloride, better known as table salt, is the most consumed form of sodium. Most Americans get 75 percent of their sodium from processed and packaged foods like soups, canned foods, cured and luncheon meats, prepared mixes, and snack foods. The high levels of salt in processed food increases the risk of high blood pressure, a harbinger of heart disease and stroke, the number one and number three killers in the U.S.

The simplest way to reduce your salt intake is to add no salt during cooking or at the table. When you cook, limit soy sauce, catsup, salad dressings, barbecue sauce, and salsas. They usually have high sodium levels. “Gradually cut back on salt, and you will gradually be satisfied with less, “ says Marti Bradbury, UI Hospitals and Clinics registered dietitian.

Be salt savvy

• Buy fresh vegetables or processed ones with no salt added
• Use herbs and spices for extra flavor
• Cook rice, pasta, potatoes, and hot cereal without adding salt
• Rinse canned foods to remove some of the sodium
• Opt for low- or reduced-sodium or no salt added foods