by Lilisha Burris, R.D.
When you learned that too much salt is unhealthy, you took the salt shaker off of the table. And you only add salt to the dishes you make on special occasions.
That should be enough, right?
Cutting back on added salt is an important step, however there is much more to know about salt.
Sodium is the main ingredient of salt. We all need some sodium. Too much sodium, however, can lead to high blood pressure. It can also increase your risk for heart disease, stroke, and kidney disease.
Healthy adults over 50 only need about 1300 milligrams (mg) of sodium each day. This is the amount of sodium in about 1/2 teaspoon of table salt.
Take the online Nutri-eSCREEN eating habits survey. Designed for older adults, Nutri-eSCREEN uses your answers to provide instant feedback about your eating habits. The survey is easy to use and takes less than 10 minutes.
Ontario residents can call an EatRight Ontario registered dietitian at 1-877-510-510-2 to talk about their results. They answer questions in over 100 languages. The dietitian can help you plan nutrition goals and practical steps to take action.
The Guide to Healthy Eating for Older Adults highlights important nutrition topics such as healthy weights, vitamin and mineral needs, and eating well to stay healthy.
To ask for a free paper copy of the guide, Ontario residents can call the Registered Dietitians at 1-877-510-510-2.
Residents of British Columbia can talk to a registered dietitian at Health Link BC for free by calling 8-1-1.
Residents of Manitoba can talk to a registered dietitian at the Provincial Contact Centre for free by calling 1-877-830-2892.
About the Author
Lilisha Burris is a registered dietitian with EatRight Ontario. Ontario residents can talk to a Registered Dietitian at EatRight Ontario for free. We answer questions in over 100 languages. Call toll-free at 1-877-510-510-2 or visit us online at www.eatrightontario.ca.