More than 90% of children in the US are getting too much sodium in their daily diet, according to a recent study by the CDC. Store bought foods accounted for 65% of consumed sodium, the majority coming from the following foods: pizza, yeast bread and rolls, cold cuts/cured meats, salty snacks like chips, pretzels and popcorn and chicken nuggets and patties. Fast food and pizza restaurants accounted for 13%. School cafeteria food only accounted for 9%, in line with national guidelines aimed at reducing sodium in school lunches. Approximately 39% of sodium intake occurred during dinner, 29.5% at lunch and 16.4% at snacks.
Not mentioned in the study I read was sodium intake in beverages, both soda and sports drinks.
Doubtless to say, it is important to watch your child's sodium intake (we should be watching ours as parents, as well) in order to decrease long term risks of developing high blood pressure and heart disease in the future.
Be informed consumers and read packages when you shop. Also - be aware of the high sodium content in fast foods.
