Hidden Sources of Sodium in Your Diet

The recommended daily allowance for sodium is 2300 mg per day for a healthy adult, and about half of that if you suffer from high blood pressure, kidney disease, or diabetes. Most people easily consume more than that, however. Even if you watch what foods you eat, some foods contain hidden sodium that you wouldn't think about. For example:

Beverages. You expect pre-packaged food to contain salt, but beverages. Yep. Check the label.

Licorice. Sugar, sure. But licorice also contains plenty of salt. Who knew?

Cheese. You know that cheese is high in saturated fat, but watch out—it can be loaded with sodium, too.

Condiments. Ketchup, mustard, salad dressing. All culprits.

Bagels. Not only loaded with carbohydrates. Bagels can have over 400mg of salt in them, too.

Of course, be wary of all prepackaged foods, including canned foods. Look for low or reduced sodium versions of these items.