Why Limit Sodium?

Why should I limit salt?

Too much sodium prevents the body from filtering properly which will cause your metabolic rate to slow down by working less efficiently. Sodium is a killer and anything high in sodium must be avoided. A diet high in salt can raise your blood pressure or may contribute to fluid retention, which makes your heart work harder, and may cause shortness of breath and swollen legs, ankles, and feet.

How much do I need?

Every protein food (egg whites, chicken, fish, meat, turkey) is naturally high in sodium but is necessary for a healthy diet to build muscle and lose fat. Therefore it is important to avoid any foods that have salt, sodium, sodium benzoate and any other sodium preservative present in the ingredients. Read food labels and select wisely when following the Ultra Fit program at Coop's Health & Fitness. The Ultra Fit program is the healthiest nutritional program and produces the best results in fat loss, lean muscle gain, lowering cholesterol, lowering blood pressure, sustaining blood sugar levels, increasing energy, improving strength and affording a better quality of life.

To limit salt:

• Do not use salt at the table.
• Avoid canned and processed foods: soups, vegetables, meats, cheese, commercial breads, muffins, pastries and instant cereals.
• Omit salty foods such as pickles, olives, sauerkraut, chips, crackers, T.V. dinners, hot dogs, luncheon meats, sausage, salt pork, chipped and corned beef, and commercial salad dressings.
• Omit high sodium seasonings: garlic salt, onion salt, and seasoning salts, bouillon & soy sauce.
• Omit prepared rice, pasta, and dried soup mixes, Hamburger Helper, and Shake & Bake type products.
• Avoid fast foods.
• Request no salt to be added to your meals when eating out.