Sodium Intake Calculator

The general recommendation is less than 2,300 mg/day (about 1 teaspoon of salt). The American Heart Association recommends an ideal limit of 1,500 mg/day for most adults. The average American consumes about 3,400 mg/day.

Excess sodium raises blood pressure, which increases the risk of heart disease, stroke, and kidney disease. It can also cause water retention, bloating, and calcium loss from bones. Reducing sodium is especially important for people with hypertension.

Cook at home more often, read nutrition labels, choose low-sodium products, rinse canned foods, use herbs/spices instead of salt, limit processed meats and cheese, and ask for sauces on the side at restaurants. Potassium-rich foods (bananas, potatoes) can help counteract sodium.