Cardiac Low-Sodium Diet

If you are a cardiac patient, your doctor may prescribe a low-sodium diet, in addition to medication and other therapies. A low-sodium diet lowers hypertension (high blood pressure) and may lower your risk of a heart attack or stroke. Since sodium causes the body to retain fluids, you may also be prescribed a low-sodium diet for congestive heart failure.

Low-Sodium Diet

On a low-sodium diet, your doctor will ask you to cut your sodium intake to between 1,500 mg to 2,300 mg of sodium per day. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, the lower number is a better goal for lowering blood pressure. Eat foods lower in sodium as part of a healthy diet and exercise to improve your overall cardiac health.

Start by making subtle changes in your diet. Banish the salt shaker from the table. Season your foods with herbal blends that do not contain salt, garlic, lemon juice and hot pepper sauce. Do not use soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce because they are high in sodium.

Choose fresh and frozen vegetables instead of canned vegetables. Create your own fresh rice and pasta dishes instead of using box mixes for side dishes. Check the labels of processed foods for the amount of sodium per serving, and limit your portion size to the amount listed, or realize that you are increasing your sodium intake proportionately to your portion size. Avoid canned soups and make your own instead using fresh fruits, vegetables, lean meat and low-sodium broth or bouillon.

Eat unsalted nuts or air-popped popcorn seasoned with herbs instead of salty chips or pretzels for a snack. Do not leave salt out of your baking recipes at home, because the salt interacts chemically with the other ingredients to produce the desired results. Instead, eat fruit sorbets or ice pops for dessert instead of baked goods.

Keep in mind that just because a food advertises that it has "no salt added," it does not mean it doesn't contain sodium. Sodium occurs in many foods naturally, so always read the sodium content on the label. Keep a food journal to help you keep track of your sodium intake.