Salt needs of healthy adults
Written by: Dr. Rowena | Posted: Aug 17 2009
Q: I am using the DASH diet as well as Resperate (which I LOVE). I monitor my salt, potassium, magnesium levels daily. I can’t seem to find any information on what is the lowest safe daily level of salt for an individual. [I am 65 years old. I have heard that too little salt can be dangerous but I don't know how much is too little.]
A: About a teaspoon of salt a day will meet the needs of most healthy adults. Most of us eat much more because salt is added to foods for flavor. A blood level of 135 mEq/l is considered low by most laboratories. To see the government guidelines about salt intake click here.
Tags: blood level, Dash diet, Diet & Exercise, government guidelines, little salt, RESPeRATE, salt intake, sodiumFoods to avoid when diagnosed with high blood pressure
Written by: Dr. Rowena | Posted: Sep 03 2008
Q: What foods do I have to avoid with high blood pressure?
A: The DASH diet is the best known eating plan to help lower high blood pressure. For an online guide to good food choices click here.
Tags: Dash diet, diet, Diet & Exercise, foods, high blood pressure, hypertensionWhat fruits and vegetables can lower blood pressure?
Written by: Dr. Rowena | Posted: Aug 03 2007
Q: Do you know of any specific fruits and vegetables that reduce high blood pressure?
A: Research studies were done by health organizations to look at dietary approaches to stop hypertension. These studies have led to the DASH diet which emphasizes fruits and vegetables. A copy of the booklet, “Your Guide to Lowering Your Blood Pressure with DASH” is available for free here.
Tags: Dash diet, Diet & Exercise, fruits, high blood pressure, vegetables
