Tip of the day: Cut the salt, not the flavor

You may think you need salt to enhance the flavors of your food, but there are tasty lower-sodium alternatives you should consider, particularly if you are at risk for high blood pressure and heart disease. Get creative and use herbs and spices, salt-free seasoning blends, citrus juice or zest, and flavored vinegars instead of salt. When possible, eat fresh foods, especially fruits and vegetables, which are naturally low sodium choices. Use sodium-free broth as a base for homemade soup. Replace regular bouillon with a sodium-free product, such as Herb Ox Sodium-Free Instant Broth & Seasoning Chicken Bouillon (0 mg per 4-gram packet).

If you can't find low sodium canned foods, consider rinsing and draining higher-sodium foods to eliminate some salt. (For example, running water over canned tuna and salmon, canned vegetables, feta cheese, and capers can reduce the sodium by up to 30 percent.)

For more nutrition advice, take a look at the easy things you can do to lower your salt intake, watch our video (above) on our staffs' tests of low-sodium vs. high-sodium foods, and stop by our new DIY Guide to Exercise & Dieting.