Health experts believe that most Americans should consume less salt but are not sure how to determine how much is too much, according to a report from the Institute of Medicine (IOM).
"Studies have looked at efforts to lower excessive salt intake, but raised questions about harm from too little salt," explained IOM committee chair Dr. Brian Strom, at the University of Pennsylvania.
Currently, the amount recommended in U.S. Dietary Guidelines (ages 14-50) is a daily intake of 2,300 milligrams, while for those over 51 the limit is 1,500 mg per day.
Yet, according to IOM, the average American consumes 3,400 mg or more of salt per day. Much of that salt is in the food we eat, while only a small portion comes from the salt shaker.
Docs recommend eating more unprocessed foods at home where flavor may be added with non-salt substitutes like lemon, vinegars, herbs, spices, jalapenos, garlic and onions.
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