Sodium intake

DinaRobin
DinaRobin Posts: 61 Member
edited November 12 in Food and Nutrition
MFP sets a daily sodium target of 2500 for me (5'3", 38 years, 175lbs trying to lose another 40lbs at a rate of 1-2lbs per week).

My average daily consumption is between 300 and 400.

Is this enough? I don't like the taste of salt, don't add it to anything and don't choose salty foods, but I know the body needs some of course.

Any thoughts?

Replies

  • melsinct
    melsinct Posts: 3,512 Member
    The sodium number is really a ceiling, not a target number. You want to stay as far below that 2500 as you can. Your body needs some sodium but it naturally occurs in foods so you definitely don't need to salt things to get enough.
  • DinaRobin
    DinaRobin Posts: 61 Member
    Ok thanks
  • jamesfit99
    jamesfit99 Posts: 61
    As stated, 2500 is a ceiling, and it's really for people who do not have high blood pressure or other issues or demographics. In those cases 1500 mg might be the ceiling.

    Your sodium levels are excellent, but unless you never eat out, I wouldn't be surprised if they're a bit higher, as it's almost impossible to find out the sodium content in restarurant foods unless it's either a larger chain with printed values, or you are able to order a dish completely without salt such as steamed vegetables or freshly prepared (non sauteed) meat or fish. As for the rest, you can be pretty sure that all the sauces and salad dressings are chocked full of salt.

    -- James
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