When we make the decision to take control of our health, we begin to make changes to
the way we eat. We actively begin to cut back on certain things. Things we feel are making us fat. Some of us are quick to cut the carbohydrates from our diets. Others cut back on the dietary fats. And sure, if we're eating these things to excess, cutting back on them can make a difference for us.
But there's another culprit we often ignore, which doesn't only cause us to gain weight, but actually threatens our health. I'm talking about sodium. And as a general rule, we're getting way too much of it. Now you may be thinking, "I'm okay, I don't add extra salt to my foods." But it's not that simple.
The reason high sodium is such a huge problem is because sodium is in almost everything we eat. It's in our meats and seafood. It's in milk. And while these foods aren't necessarily loaded with it, the amount they do have certainly add up.
Read more ¿Qué más?: This amazing oil will help you actually burn fat!
But the real problem–the reason our sodium levels are so high–is because of all the processed food we eat. I'm talking about the pizzas, the pastas, the potato chips, the cereal, the bacon, the deli meats, the processed cheeses, the fast foods.
Basically, if it comes in a box, bag, or package, chances are it's loaded with sodium.
So what's the big deal? Why is sodium bad?
Well, it isn't. We need a certain amount of sodium in our diets in order to function. But like most things in life, it's all about achieving the proper balance. When we have too much sodium, it causes us a lot of trouble. It places a burden on our kidneys, who try to bring it back down to manageable levels.
And when they can't, the sodium begins to build up. It starts to leak out into our arteries and can cause blockages. This causes our hearts to work harder when pumping blood and can eventually lead to heart failure.
Plus, it just makes us look bad! Sodium is incredibly dehydrating. It pulls water out of our cells and this water gets trapped beneath our skin, where we have a harder time making use of it. So we begin to feel the effects of dehydration like thirst, lack of energy, and dry mouth. And since the water gets trapped beneath our skin, it causes us to look bloated! Our bodies start retaining extra water and we can see the effects both in the mirror and on the scale.
So how do we make sure we aren't taking in too much sodium each day? Well, it's a two-step process: First, obviously, eliminate all the extra salt we put on our foods. Find other herbs and seasonings to add flavors to your food. You have many options here, like: garlic, rosemary, thyme, chopped onion, pepper, and dill weed. These are all great-tasting alternatives to salt.
Part two is to cut out the processed food. Stay away from the potato chips and cookies. Cut down on the fast food. Focus on eating fresh foods like lean meats, fruits and vegetables. When you start eating this way, you'll find that your sodium levels naturally fall to acceptable levels. And that water weight you're holding onto becomes much easier to lose.
I hope you find these tips helpful. If you know anyone who complains of feeling bloated all the time, feel free to share this with them.
Image via Thinkstock
