Finding the Balance

August 2024

Questions to Consider Before Your Check-in

This month we will be talking about the relationship between sodium and blood pressure. Here are some questions to consider before your check in with your Care Coordinator:

- Which foods in your diet seem to contain the most sodium?

- What processed products can you replace with fresh ones?

- Have you tried checking your blood pressure after eating something known to be high in sodium?

'Salty' About High Readings?

Does sodium actually cause your blood pressure to be higher? Why does it do that?

The short answer is yes. Sodium contributes to elevated blood pressure. This is due to how the body regulates proper sodium levels.

When excess sodium levels occur, it causes the body to start to push more water into the bloodstream to try and correct the imbalance. The greater the volume of blood that has to be moved through your system means higher readings.

Sodium levels are managed by the kidneys through the production of urine. As the sodium exits your body, so does some of the excess fluid to try and return to a normal state. Getting rid of excess fluid can be a process that some people are able to handle naturally and within a relatively short period of time. Other people, depending on kidney function, sensitivity to salt, and other factors, may require more time or even medication to aid in the process.

Passing on the Preservatives

When we talk about a low sodium diet, we don't mean just putting down the salt shaker. Sodium can be found in a lot of unexpected places.

Sodium in packaged or processed products can be hidden in the preservatives and stabilizing agents that make things shelf stable. While it may not always be possible, the best way to avoid hidden sodium is to eat as many whole foods and unprocessed ingredients as possible.

Cooking at home with fresh produce gives you more control over the sodium you consume. There are many "reduced sodium, "no salt added", and "salt free" options for many packaged products. But this does not always mean sodium free. Visit the links below for more information on how to recognize and reduce your sodium intake.

Additional Resources

Websites, Articles, and/or Videos

Getting the Scoop on Sodium

How Kidneys Help

Blog Posts

Introduction to Electrolytes

Electrolytes- Sodium

Replacing Salt While Cooking

Community Events

Wednesday Art Walk

Honeybee Festival

Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp

Still Have Questions?

We love to empower through education. Click on the button below to visit our website to get answers to some common questions, previous education topics, as well as other helpful resources.