Where do you start?

Start easy...every food product you buy has a nutrition label, usually on the back of the package. Look at it, and see what they consider to be a "serving"--this is at the top. Then look down until you see "Sodium". The amount next to it is usually in miligrams, PER SERVING. While you are looking, also note the fat, sugar and cholesterol.

DO NOT ASSUME that a product that says "low sodium" or "reduced sodium" is a good choice! You must look at the label! A can of reduced-sodium soup can still have more sodium than you need in a week. In fact, many low-fat products HAVE INCREASED SODIUM to add flavor. And many low sodium foods have added more fat for flavor!!

Next, make the obvious choice...look at all of the ketchup bottles and select the one with the least sodium, per equal serving (compare tablespoon to tablespoon). You don't have to give up most things--just make smart choices.

Wheat bread is generally lower in sodium than white or sourdough, and has more fiber. Some wheat breads are lower than others, per slice. Wheat bread with flax is low and tasty! Spread some low-sodium peanut butter and you haven't lost taste--just sodium! Jif has one called "Simply Jif" which is lower in sodium AND lower in sugar...and it's awesome! Private Selection Organic Peanut Butter from Ralph's/Kroger is also a smart choice. Slice up a banana and put it on that peanut butter sandwich, and you'll have energy to spare!

Don't be fooled by "organic"!! That doesn't mean anything other than "no chemicals". Not all organic foods are low in sodium. Read the labels!

Fresh veggies are the obvious best choice, but if you can't find good quality, or are pressed for time, head for the frozen food aisle. NOT the cheese filled, sauce-laden stuff. Buy the frozen corn or green beans with nothing added--I'll give you lots of easy, quick ways to flavor them, so fill the freezer now with your favorites. Trader Joe's has some awesome frozen asparagus spears...squeeze a fresh lemon over them in a glass dish, add some pepper or Mrs. Dash and microwave covered for about 3 minutes...excellent!