What are the common sources of sodium in my diet?
Sodium is a chemical element found abundant in nature. Table salt is sodium chloride and contains 40% sodium by weight. When you buy prepared and packaged foods, make sure to read the labels and to watch for the words soda (referring to sodium bicarbonate, commonly known as baking soda), sodium and the symbol Na. These products contain sodium compounds. Be aware of both natural and added sodium content in the foods that you eat. The Nutrient Facts Labels found on food products will list the total sodium content of the item per serving. Pay attention to serving sizes as many salty snack foods have a very small serving size. Some drugs contain high amounts of sodium. Carefully read the labels on all over-the-counter medicines. Read the ingredient list and warning statement to see if the product contains sodium. A statement of sodium content must be included on labels of antacids that have 5 mg or more per dosage unit (tablet, teaspoon, etc.). Some companies are now producing low sodium o
