How much milligrams of sodium per day

The maximum daily limit for adults is a little less than six times this figure: 2, milligrams of sodium per day. Children need much less sodium. Limits range from 1, milligrams of sodium per day for children aged one to three years, and between 1,mg to 2,mg for those aged between four to 13 years.

The sodium chloride table salt we add to other foods during cooking or at the table accounts for less than a quarter of sodium intake. A very small amount of sodium is also present in many foods such as milk and meat that contribute only a very small amount to our overall intake.

Most sodium we eat comes from processed and pre-packaged foods. Sodium is commonly added to foods during processing to add flavour, for preservation and as a raising agent sodium bicarbonate. Savoury snack foods contain high amounts of sodium. Many sweet snack foods and bakery products often contain high levels of sodium as well.

This is usually from added salt and other additives such as sodium bicarbonate, which helps baked goods rise. Some other foods we eat everyday, such as breads and breakfast cereals, contribute a lot of salt to our diets. You already know foods such as processed meats and cheeses are very salty, but just how much might surprise you. A few slices of leg ham or a couple of BBQ sausages will provide around half the daily limit of sodium.

Nutrition Basics. Healthy For Good: Spanish Infographics. Is there such a thing as eating too little sodium? Last Reviewed: Nov 1, First Name required First Name Required. Last Name required Last Name Required. Email required Email Required.

Zip Code required Zip Code Required. I agree to the Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy. Kroger Health. Nationally Sponsored by. Beware: Sodium isn't only in salty snacks or the table shaker. Many of the already prepared foods and meals you consume at restaurants, cafes and grab-and-go items at grocery stores have sodium, because it's an inexpensive way to add flavor and is an effective way to preserve foods. Even foods with low to moderate sodium content can lead to a high sodium diet if you consume too much of them.

Topping the list for highest percentage of our daily sodium consumption are items such as bread, cold cuts and cured meats, pizza, fresh and processed poultry, soups, sandwiches including burgers , cheese and pasta.

The best way to combat high sodium in your daily diet is to watch your intake of highly processed foods. Read the Nutrition Facts label and look for the Daily Value of sodium in the foods you eat. And consider these satisfying options to keep sodium under control: fruits and vegetables, unsalted nuts, legumes and whole grains including brown rice, oats and barley. Need serious help making a plan? The nutrition experts in our professional membership are ready to help you create the change to improve your life.

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