Tips on reducing your sodium intake

Even if you can’t change how much salt food manufacturers and restaurant chains put in their food, you can take steps to lower salt in your own diet. Here are some tips from American Dietetic Assn. spokeswoman Jeannie Gazzaniga-Moloo:

—Focus on eating and preparing fresh fruits and vegetables, minimally prepared whole grains and lean meats at home.

—Cook with fresh herbs and spices and use acids, such as lemon juice or vinegar, to replace salt in a dish.

—Most of your salt in restaurants is going to come from sauces or dressings. Ask that they be served on the side.

—Reduce sodium by reducing portion size. You can still eat some of the salty foods you like but cut the portion in half and add some fresh fruits and vegetables.

—Read nutrition labels and find the sodium level to gauge how much you are eating.