Although some sodium is essential for survival, inadequate sodium intake is a rare problem. We need less than 500 mg of sodium a day to stay healthy. This is enough to accomplish all the vital functions that sodium performs in the body - helping maintain normal fluid levels, healthy muscle function, and proper acidity (pH) of the blood. Excessive sodium intake can cause fluid to be retained in the tissues, which can lead to hypertension (high blood pressure) and can aggrevate many medical disorders, including congestive heart failure, certain forms of kidney disease, and premenstrual syndrome (PMS).

One of the best ways to limit the sodium in your diet is to limit your use of salt when cooking and dining. Just as important, stay away from processed foods, which often contain excessively high amounts of sodium.

No-salt Herb Blend For Salt Restricted Diets Makes 1/3 cup seasoning. 5 minutes preparation time. 4 teaspoons sesame seeds 2 teaspoons celery seeds 2 teaspoons marjoram 2 teaspoons poppy seeds 2 teaspoons black pepper 2 teaspoons parsley 1 teaspoon onion powder 1 teaspoon thyme 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder 1/2 teaspoon paprika 1/2 teaspoon rosemary 1. Mix herbs and spices in a small bowl. 2. Store in a closed jar for up to 6 months. If this recipe tastes a little bitter to you, add 1 tsp. salt substitute to the mix and use it on chicken breasts cooked in hot cast iron skillet, which toasts/cooks the seasonings. This really perks up the seasonings and balances the flavors very nicely. It is a delicious new flavor combination. It can be used on other foods and meats.

MoonDragon's Health Information: Nutrition Basics - Minerals: Sodium

MoonDragon's Nutrition Information: Diets - Sodium-Controlled (2.0 to 2.5 Grams)

MoonDragon's Nutrition Information: Diets - Cholesterol & Sodium-Restricted

• Guidelines For Selecting & Preparing Foods
  
• Avoid Foods That Contain Additives & Artificial Ingredients
  
• Is Aspartame A Safe Sugar Substitute
  
• Increase Your Consumption of Raw Produce
  
• Avoid Overcooking Your Foods
  
• Use Proper Cooking Utensils
  
• Limit Your Use of Salt

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LINKS

Sodium: Diet & Hepatitis C

GNC.com: Low-Salt Diet

Nutrition & High Blood Pressure

NYH Health Care: Hidden Salts In Food

Diet to Stop Hypertension

FDA.gov: A Pinch of Contraversy Shakes Up Dietary Salt

Salt Talk: The Debate About Sodium & Your Health

CNN - Salt: Is It Really That Bad For You? August 13, 1998

Sodium In Drinking Water

Celtic Sea Salt: A Natural Sea Salt VS Sodium Chloride - Balanced With Micronutrients Found In Sea Water