Does Eating Foods High in Salt and Sodium Increase My Blood Cholesterol Level?
No. The amount of sodium in your diet has no effect on your cholesterol level. However, sodium can cause blood pressure to rise in some people. Further, many people with high blood cholesterol also have high blood pressure. If you have both, it’s a good idea to reduce your sodium intake. The National High Blood Pressure Education Program recommends no more than 2,400 mg per day (the amount in about 1 teaspoon of table salt). On average, Americans take in 4,000 to 6,000 milligrams of sodium each day. This sodium comes from many different foods. Foods high in sodium include some canned soups, vegetables, and meats; instant soups and cereals; ready-to-eat cereals; salty snacks and crackers; pickles and olives; and many frozen meals. For more help on reducing sodium as part of a cholesterol- lowering diet, write for Step by Step Eating To Lower Your High Cholesterol.
