Federal dietary guidelines recommend that adults limit sodium intake to less than 2,300 milligrams per day—equivalent to about one teaspoon of salt—to reduce the risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke. Currently, Americans consume an average of 3,400mg daily, nearly 50% more than recommended, with over 70% coming from processed and restaurant foods rather than table salt. Excess sodium forces your heart to work harder by increasing blood volume and pressure in your arteries, disproportionately affecting minority communities. Read nutrition labels to choose foods with less than 100% daily value of sodium, prepare more meals at home, and gradually reduce salt use to allow your taste preferences to adapt.