Sodium is an element we all need, but the unfortunate reality is most people too much of it. The experts recommend that adults get no more than 2,400 milligrams of sodium a day and the growing consensus is that even this level is too high. With the amount of hidden sodium in processed foods, there’s little danger of an adult becoming sodium deficient if they eat a normal diet. In fact, there are some hidden sodium sources you may not even be aware of. Here are two “secret” sources of sodium you need to know about – especially if you have hypertension.

Hidden Sodium Sources: Drinking Water

Yes, even drinking water has sodium, particularly soft water. The Environmental Protection Agency recommends that sodium levels be kept to under 20 milligrams or less per quart, but the water supply in many areas has levels that are far higher than this. A study published in the American Journal of Epidemiology showed that the sodium content of drinking water can have an effect on blood pressure levels. It showed that teenagers whose drinking water contained 107 mg/liter of sodium had higher blood pressures than a group whose water supply had 8 mg/liter of sodium. To find out if your water supply is high in sodium, get a copy of your local water report. If the levels are too high, considering getting a reverse osmosis filter to remove the excess sodium.

Hidden Sodium Sources: Medications

Many people are surprised when they find out that many non-prescription and even some prescription medications are high in sodium. Sodium levels can be unacceptably high in some over-the-counter medications including laxatives, sleep medications, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications, and antacids. The amount of sodium in a single pill can be as high as 800 milligrams. The good news is you can find out how much sodium is in the non-prescription medications you use by reading the label. For prescription medications, ask your pharmacist.

Hidden Sodium Sources: Other Sources

Other hidden sources of sodium to watch out for is sodium in soft drinks, preserved foods, baked goods, and, particularly, restaurant meals. When you order a meal at a restaurant, chances are it’s loaded with sodium before you even put your hand on the salt shaker. Salt is an inexpensive way to add flavor to food and most restaurants use this to their advantage.

The bottom line? Don’t let yourself be caught off guard when it comes to sodium. It has a sneaky way of hiding in all kinds of foods and beverages – even the water you drink. Be an informed sodium consumer, particularly if you have high blood pressure.

Filed under: Fitness

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