Keeping Salt in Check

Most of us have heard "cut cut cut sodium." But a recent study shows that too much AND too little may increase risk of cardiovascular death (aka heart attacks). An article published in the NYTimes this week discussed the study. So what does this really mean for your intake? You don't need to avoid salt entirely (this is quite impossible, really). But limiting your intake will likely be beneficial, especially given how much sodium is added to processed foods in our food supply. Try these simple tips to keep salt within healthy limits:

1. Choose fresh! Think seasonal fruits and veggies for vitamins, minerals, and flavor. Choose them instead of processed and packaged foods which often have ridiculous amounts of added sodium. 
2. Add spice. Salt a tad in cooking (just enough to bring out other flavors) and add dried/fresh herbs and spices for taste. 
3. Avoid salting food at the table. Food is typically salted during cooking (especially at restaurants), so keep the shaker off the table.