Excessive sodium intake is a prevalent concern, with over 70% of dietary sodium originating from packaged and prepared foods. High sodium consumption is linked to an increased risk of developing high blood pressure, a significant factor in heart disease and stroke. ​

The Nutrition Facts label on packaged foods serves as an essential tool for monitoring sodium intake. Here’s how to effectively interpret it:​

1. Serving Size: Begin by noting the serving size and the total servings per container. Nutritional information, including sodium content, is based on this serving size. Consuming multiple servings increases total sodium intake proportionally. ​
2. Sodium Content: The label lists sodium in milligrams (mg) per serving.​
3. % Daily Value (%DV): This indicates how much a nutrient in a serving contributes to a daily diet. As a guideline
   • 5% DV or less per serving is considered low.​
   • 20% DV or more per serving is considered high.

The FDA recommends that adults limit sodium intake to less than 2,300 mg per day, which is about one teaspoon of table salt. ​

By diligently reading Nutrition Facts labels, you can make informed choices to reduce sodium consumption, thereby supporting better heart health and overall well-being.​

Resources for Further Information:

• Sodium on the Nutrition Facts Label