When reading food labels, it’s essential to be aware of hidden sodium content, as it can easily sneak into your diet without you noticing. Sodium is often added to foods for flavor, preservation, and texture enhancement, but too much can lead to health problems like high blood pressure and heart disease. To avoid these risks, understanding food labels is key.

The first step in identifying hidden sodium is to check the nutrition facts panel. Sodium content is typically listed in milligrams per serving. While many people may focus on the overall calorie count or fat content, sodium often goes unnoticed. Pay close attention to this section, especially for processed foods, canned goods, frozen meals, or anything with a long shelf life.

Next, look at the serving size. The sodium content is listed per serving, and serving sizes can be misleading. A can of soup might contain more than one serving, so it’s important to multiply the sodium amount by the number of servings you plan to consume. This can easily add up to a much higher sodium intake than expected.

Keep an eye out for terms that indicate high sodium content. Words like “sodium chloride,” “monosodium glutamate,” “baking soda,” and “disodium phosphate” all refer to forms of salt. Some food manufacturers may use these ingredients to boost flavor without directly labeling the product as “high in sodium.” Foods labeled as “low-fat” or “reduced-fat” can also be sneaky culprits, as manufacturers often add more salt to enhance flavor when fat is removed.

Another area to examine is the ingredients list. The higher up on the list an ingredient appears, the more of it is present in the product. If you spot a salt-related ingredient near the top, this is a strong indication that the product contains a significant amount of sodium. Even seemingly healthy foods like sauces, dressings, and snacks can contain surprising amounts of sodium.

Many brands also offer lower-sodium alternatives for certain foods. These versions can help you maintain a healthier diet without sacrificing flavor. As you become more familiar with reading labels, you will be able to spot high-sodium products more easily and make better choices for your health.

By carefully reading food labels and becoming more aware of hidden sodium sources, you can make more informed choices about what to put into your body. This practice can be especially beneficial for those looking to manage blood pressure or reduce their overall sodium intake. With attention to detail, you can avoid excess sodium while still enjoying a wide variety of foods.