Hello Loyal Soup People!
We hear a lot about trying to lower our salt intake. But do we really understand why? The answer, as it turns out, is simple. High sodium (salt) intake can lead to high blood pressure. High blood pressure drastically increases your risk of heart disease and stroke. It is that simple.
Most Americans consume over 3,400 milligrams of sodium per day, which is 50% more than the FDA’s recommended limit of 2,300 mg daily. One of the reasons we’re told to avoid processed food is because it is typically loaded with salt (and sugar and fat!). Deli meat, salad dressings, bread, processed cheese, chips, canned sauces… the list goes on and on. Not only do these items contain excess salt, but if eaten frequently, can cause you to start craving saltier and saltier foods.
The good news is that you can change your cravings! Simply start lowering the amount of salt you eat, and you’ll find yourself yearning for healthier, more natural foods. Sure, lower salt foods at first might taste a little bland. But give it time. Eventually the foods you used to eat will now taste extremely salty. Lowering salt intake is important for everyone, but particularly for people who have a family history of high blood pressure.
Swap out the deli meat for an apple and the chips and dip for carrots and hummus – you might end up saving your life!
Love,
Soupermom
*NOTE – Soupermom is not a licensed dietitian, doctor, personal trainer, or anything like that. She’s just extremely knowledgeable about healthy living!! But if you slip and fall while taking her advice, it is not her fault!
Marilyn Polon (Soupermom), Co-Founder and CAO (chief anxiety officer) has been worried about Soupergirl since the company launched in 2008. Actually, even before that. Her career has also been random and fascinating. After twenty years as a speech therapist, Soupermom changed careers and became a volunteer coordinator. She then had a wonderful stint as a docent at the Corcoran Gallery of Art. She was then dragged out of retirement by her daughter who insisted that they start a soup company. Could that be any more random?
All of the company’s recipes come from Soupermom’s kitchen. Honestly, she’s a testament to the power of healthy eating. Her hobbies include really long hikes, walking, doting on her granddaughters, and coming up with new recipes for Soupergirl. She is also a guru of all things health related but gets the words to every single song she sings incorrect. All of them. Loudly. Lastly, her laugh is contagious.