frustrated...

lcoreo5

So i recently became obsessed with watching my sodium intake. i go over almost everyday... i do awesome with my calories and very rarely go over. I just cant seem to keep that sodium down. it makes me feel like im not doing well with my eating habits because of those evil red numbers. my diary is public so feel free to check it out and see what i can do... thanks!!

Lyadeia

Right away the first thing that caught my eye was the amount of deli foods in your diary. They are not necessarily bad, but deli meats and cheeses are notorious for having high amounts of sodium. You might also want to check some labels when you buy grains such as breads and tortillas. Some brands have lower sodium than others.

ljbhill

Right away the first thing that caught my eye was the amount of deli foods in your diary. They are not necessarily bad, but deli meats and cheeses are notorious for having high amounts of sodium. You might also want to check some labels when you buy grains such as breads and tortillas. Some brands have lower sodium than others.

^What they said. Anything that is packaged/processed and you really need to check the label as salt is hidden in almost ALL packaged foods :sad:

If you're doing it from a weight loss point of view, watch the sugar more closely. That's the one that puts on weight and stops you from losing it and it's in almost EVERYTHING!

chevy88grl

I agree with the previous post - deli meats and cheeses are notoriously high in sodium. There ARE some deli meats that are lower sodium. I know deli meat is an easy, convenient lunch (esp if you work), so try finding those lower sodium ones OR try and not eat them everyday.

graysmom2005

What I noticed was the large amount of "diet" foods. Special K crackers, Lean Pockets, along with the processed deli meats/cheeses and breads/tortillas. If it comes in a package it is going to be high in sodium a lot of times. I was RIGHT where you were, so don't take this as criticism. I lived off of diet foods and Lean Pockets for YEARS. It wasn't until MFP that I became aware. I would grill your own meats and slice them for a sandwich. If you love cheese maybe find a low-sodium block of cheese that isn't so processed. Nix the diet foods if you can and opt for whole foods instead. Should make a big difference! Good luck!!

brandiuntz

Due to my blood pressure problems, I try and keep mine below 1500mg a day (way less than MFP's suggestion). It can be tough, but here are my thoughts based on your diary.

The biggest thing is to get away from the chips (even those tasty whole grain ones), packaged meals, and deli meats. Try substituting your own cooked meat (bake some chicken or turkey, then slice up for sandwiches).

Avoid chips. Have some fresh fruit instead.

Avoid any soy sauce and pre-made dressings. See if there's a way to make your own or try simple oil/vignette types.

If it's packaged, try and find a "fresh" version. Buy low sodium items when you can. Read the labels of everything you buy to make sure the sodium in it is worth it.

The fresher the food you can eat, the less sodium will be in your diet. You can see my diary for some ideas, though i was a bit bad last week, lol.

Wyoruby

Going over on the sodium isn't that bad really. But what I noticed is you need to drink way more water. That will help flush out all the sodium that you are takeing in. I try to drink about 12 glasses of water a day or more. It makes me have to pee like I'm pregnant again but it really helps keep off the water weight associated with eating things with sodium in them!!!

lcoreo5

Going over on the sodium isn't that bad really. But what I noticed is you need to drink way more water. That will help flush out all the sodium that you are takeing in. I try to drink about 12 glasses of water a day or more. It makes me have to pee like I'm pregnant again but it really helps keep off the water weight associated with eating things with sodium in them!!!

i usually drink at least 10 glasses of water a day, the past couple days i did poorly. when i work i have a routine of where i drink my water, but at home im all messed up.

thank you for all of your advice! I will def try cooking my own meats for sandwiches. as for the no chips etc, i sometimes really need that salty fix. i try to eat a lot of fruit, but i guess i still need that crunchy salty side with my sandwich. Also, when im craving a snack, fruit doesnt curb the edge of hunger... some crackers and cheese do.

all of your advice is MUCH appreciated!!

lcoreo5

If you're doing it from a weight loss point of view, watch the sugar more closely. That's the one that puts on weight and stops you from losing it and it's in almost EVERYTHING!

i just added sugar to my tracker and looks like im doing well there!

i have been steadily losing 2 lbs a week, i just feel like sodium is made to be a big deal and i dont want to hinder my weight loss in any way. i am very focused and dedicated to reach my goals!