What dietary choice can help reduce sodium intake?

Incorporating more whole foods into meals is a strong strategy for reducing sodium intake. Whole foods, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and nuts, are generally low in sodium compared to processed foods. When you prepare meals using these fresh ingredients, you can control the amount of salt added during cooking and avoid the excessive sodium often found in pre-packaged and processed items.

Additionally, whole foods tend to retain their natural flavors, which means you might find less need to use salt or sodium-rich seasonings to enhance taste. This dietary choice not only aids in lowering sodium consumption but also contributes a variety of nutrients that support overall health.

In contrast, options like increased consumption of red meats, transitioning to fast food, or using pre-seasoned cooking options typically lead to higher sodium levels due to the processing and seasoning methods usually involved in these choices. This illustrates why opting for whole foods is effective in managing sodium intake.