The Whole Food Blog

Many healthy people read food labels to check for calories, fat and carbs, but overlook the one number that poses the greatest threat, especially to natural weight loss.  That number is the sodium content.

What’s wrong with too much sodium?

A January study in the New England Journal of Medicine found that if the average person cut daily sodium consumption by approximately three grams, 44,000 to 92,000 deaths could be prevented each year and up to $24 billion could be saved in health care costs.  The most visible culprit, though, may be excess weight gain caused by foods in grocery stores and restaurants that are overloaded with sodium.

Don’t let sodium sabotage your natural weight loss plan.

When sodium can’t be eliminated by the kidneys it causes water retention and bloating.  Many Americans carry an extra 20-30 pounds in water weight simply because they are consuming too much sodium.  When people pay closer attention to sodium content and start drinking more healthy liquids, this water weight is usually flushed out quickly and dramatically.  That’s when natural weight loss efforts become visible and a desire to keep going is instilled.

How much sodium is too much?

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration recommends no more than 2,300 milligrams per day for the average adult.

So, now you’ll notice that big number and will want to look for foods that are lower in sodium.  Try natural whole food concentrates to satisfy cravings and hunger, without adding excess sodium to your natural weight loss plan.