But did you know the average amount we eat is 8-12 grams per day? We're killing ourselves!
One of the first pieces of advice I was given by a health nurse in Australia was to avoid giving my babies "extra" salt and "extra sugar." She said if you don't give it to them, they won't become addicted. Guess what? It worked! Neither of my children adds the extra salt to their food!
If you still don't believe you should cut down on your salt intake, consider these facts: Over consumption of salt may result in retention of liquids in the body. Kidneys can become overloaded and struggle to excrete the excess salt and water; blood pressures rise and circulatory problems increase. Still want the extra salt?
It is not necessary to reach for the shaker when your food is served and begin sprinkling the sodium chloride on the foods you eat. You can easily supply your body with its recommended dietary intake of salt by consuming fish, meat, vegetables and grains.
So, are you ready to wean yourself (and your family) from the extra salt? The procedure is fairly easy, but it is a gradual process that may take a period of 3-6 months.
Begin by slowing reducing the amount of salt you use in cooking. Use less and less, day by day, and your family won't notice. You may experience loud protests if you make them go "cold turkey!"
Experiment with herbs! There are many that add flavors that are very similar to salt.
Get the salt shaker off the table! Replace it with a shaker of mixed ground herbs (see recipe below!). Here, I am reminded of the old cliche' "out of sight...out of mind!"
Avoid foods that scream, "SALT!" These would include, but are not limited to: pretzels, chips, salted nuts, preserved meats and salami.
Stay away from fast foods and convenience foods! They're loaded with hidden salt! If you must make a run to McDonald's
When possible, purchase low-salt and salt-free varieties of your favorites foods at the grocery store. These would include canned foods, butter and margarine, bread, crackers, cereals, sauces, etc. ("low salt" usually means 1/2 to 2/3 less than normal)
Be cautious when you see "herb salt!" Often, it is a mixture of 30% herbs and 70% salt!
Here's the recipe from my health sister in Australia (you can change the herbs to suit your own tastes). Most of the ingredients can be found at your local health food store.
makes about 4 cups
Combine (finely grind together):
1/2 cup each - roasted sesame seeds and yeast flakes.
Add (all dried and ground, if possible):
2 cups parsley
1/4 cup celery tops
2 teaspoons watercress
1 teaspoon each - garlic, oregano, lemon thyme, coriander seed, paprika
1/2 teaspoon each - dill seed, black pepper
3-4 strips - lemon peel
Mix well, sieve and store covered in the refrigerator.
~ recipe author unknown ~
