Food & nutrition
Reading Sodium Labels When You Have High Blood Pressure
Putting away the salt shaker is only one part of reducing sodium. Packaged foods, sauces, soups, and prepared meals can contribute substantial amounts. The Nutrition Facts label lets you compare actual products rather than relying on how salty something tastes.
What to do next
- Start with serving size and servings per container. The sodium amount usually describes one serving.
- Compare milligrams of sodium in similar foods at the amount you actually eat.
- Use percent Daily Value as a quick comparison: 5% or less is low and 20% or more is high per serving.
- Check sauces, dressings, and toppings as well as the main food. Ask for a daily sodium goal that fits your care plan.
Make the plan fit your health needs
Do not assume “reduced sodium” means low sodium; it describes a reduction from a comparison product. Potassium-based salt substitutes may not be appropriate with kidney disease or certain medicines, so check before using them.
Put it into practice
If a label lists 400 mg per serving and you eat two servings, that portion contains 800 mg. Use the same calculation for both products you are comparing. Start with one food you buy often; a repeatable change can be easier than replacing everything at once.
Notes for your next visit
Write these in your own notes or on a printed copy. Bring them to your follow-up.
- Usual product and amount eaten:
- Sodium for that amount:
- Alternative product and sodium comparison:
Sources and further reading
General education for adults. Follow your clinician’s individual plan and the current instructions for your prescribed product. If instructions conflict, ask your clinician or pharmacist to clarify. For a medical emergency, call 911.