The Scoop on Sodium

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Tips for Eating Out on a Low-Sodium Diet

It’s not easy, but people on low-sodium diets can eat out without breaking their sodium budgets. Here are five ways to succeed:

1. Call in advance to request a low-sodium meal. Chain restaurants often can’t help, as their foods are prepared off-site.

2. Carry a pocket nutritional guide to menu items at chain restaurants and look up sodium content before you order.

3. Eat from the salad bar. Look for fresh ingredients. Avoid canned vegetables and cheese, and bring your own dressing.

4. Skip soups and sauces. Even a healthful-sounding vegetable soup is likely to be loaded with sodium.

5. Before ordering, ask if chicken or pork dishes are made with meat that has been brined to stay moist during cooking.

See our guide to healthier menu items at popular fast-food restaurants.