The preference for salty foods is learned. Teaching children to enjoy food without adding salt may help reduce problems with high blood pressure later in life. Most children actually prefer less salty food. Avoid adding salt to recipes when possible. Experiment with spices and the flavors of lemon or lime juice.
Salt is added during the processing and manufacturing of food products in the form of sodium.
Some examples of foods that contain high amounts of salt are processed meats and cheeses, canned soups, salad dressings, and prepared frozen entrees and dinners. Look for sodium in the list of ingredients on a food's packaging as well as on the food label. You'll be surprised to learn just how much sodium is added to the foods we eat. The Food Guide Pyramid is an outline of what to eat each day. It's not a rigid prescription, but a general guide that lets you choose and plan a healthful diet that's right for you and your family.