Sodium

Scientists in America have concluded that sodium consumption levels will need to decrease. Why? There have been more studies since 2005 which show that most individuals in the US should consume no more than 1500 mg of sodium per day for optimum health.
Most people consume well over twice the recommended amount of sodium. 1500 mg of sodium comes from a mere 2/3 teaspoon of salt per day. Most of this is found in processed foods and meals eaten in foodservice establishments.
The major sources of sodium intake from food in the US population are
yeast breads;
chicken and chicken mixed dishes;
pizza;
pasta and pasta dishes;
cold cuts;
condiments;
Mexican mixed dishes;
sausage,
franks,
bacon, and
ribs;
regular cheese;
grain-based desserts;
soups; and beef and beef mixed dishes
(Source: NCI, 2010).
Collectively, this group of foods contributes about 56 percent of the dietary sodium, or nearly 2000 mg per person per day.
The Dietary Guidelines will also emphasize the need for more potassium-rich foods in addition to lowering sodium in the diet for better blood pressure control.