CDC Research Shows Excess Sodium Intake Still Common in United States
Nearly all Americans consume more sodium than is recommended, according to the CDC.
A new report published by CDC shows nearly all Americans, regardless of age, race, or gender, consume more sodium than is recommended for a healthy diet. More than 90 percent of children and 89 percent of adults eat too much sodium, not including salt added at the table.
"The finding that nine of ten adults and children still consume too much salt is alarming," said CDC Director Dr. Tom Frieden, M.D., MPH. "The evidence is clear: too much sodium in our foods leads to high blood pressure, a major risk factor for heart disease and stroke. Reducing sodium in manufactured and restaurant foods will give consumers more choice and save lives."
Some other results include: 98 percent of men versus 80 percent of women consume too much sodium, and 90 percent of white adults versus 85 percent of African-American adults consume excess sodium.
"Sodium reduction is a key part of preventing heart disease and stroke," said Sandra Jackson, an author of the report and an epidemiologist in CDC's Division for Heart Disease and Stroke Prevention. "Reducing sodium is an achievable and effective strategy to improve heart health for everyone, but it's going to take all of us working together to make it possible."