If you or a loved one is living with heart failure, you have probably heard that cutting back on sodium matters. Here is why it helps, where sodium hides and simple ways to make low-sodium eating easier and still enjoyable.
Quick takeaways
- Too much sodium makes the body hold on to fluid, which makes the heart work harder.
- Most sodium comes from packaged, processed and restaurant foods, not the salt shaker.
- Reading labels, cooking at home and seasoning with herbs and spices make a big difference.
- Follow the sodium goal and daily weight checks your doctor recommends.
Why sodium matters with heart failure
Sodium, found in salt, causes the body to hold on to water. With heart failure, the heart is already working hard to pump. Extra fluid can build up in the legs, belly and lungs, causing swelling, weight gain and shortness of breath. Eating less sodium is one of the most effective everyday ways to help manage symptoms.
Your doctor or dietitian will recommend a daily sodium goal that fits your health. Ask them for a specific number so you know what to aim for.
Where sodium hides
Most of the sodium we eat comes from packaged, processed and restaurant foods, not the salt shaker. Common sources include:
- Deli meats, bacon, sausage and hot dogs
- Canned soups, broths and vegetables
- Frozen dinners and pizza
- Bread, rolls and tortillas
- Cheese
- Chips, crackers and pretzels
- Pickles, olives and condiments like soy sauce, ketchup and salad dressing
How to read a food label
- Check the serving size. The sodium listed is for one serving, and many packages contain more than one.
- Look at milligrams of sodium per serving and compare it with your daily goal.
- Use the % Daily Value as a quick guide: 5% or less is low, 20% or more is high.
- Watch the wording. “Reduced sodium” is not always low. “Low sodium” and “no salt added” are usually better choices.
Flavor does not have to come from salt. Herbs, spices and a squeeze of lemon go a long way.
Easy swaps
- Fresh or frozen vegetables without sauce instead of canned
- Fresh chicken, fish or lean meat instead of deli or cured meats
- Homemade soup with low-sodium broth instead of canned soup
- Unsalted nuts and fresh fruit instead of chips
- Oil and vinegar instead of bottled dressing
- Herbs, garlic, onion, pepper and citrus instead of salt
Check with your doctor before using salt substitutes, since many contain potassium, which can interact with some heart medications.
Eating out
- Ask for sauces and dressings on the side.
- Choose grilled, baked or steamed dishes over fried or breaded ones.
- Ask if dishes can be prepared without added salt.
- Take half home for another meal.
Other habits that help
- Weigh yourself daily at the same time, and tell your care team about sudden weight gain, as they advise.
- Follow any fluid guidance your doctor gives you.
- Take medications as prescribed.
- Stay active in ways your care team approves. Our guide to strength training for older adults has gentle ideas.
After a hospital stay for heart failure, some people spend a short time in subacute rehab to rebuild strength and learn to manage their condition. For families supporting a loved one, our guide to caregiver burnout offers ideas for staying well, and palliative care can help with symptoms of serious illness at any stage.
Frequently asked questions
Why is a low-sodium diet important for heart failure?
Sodium causes the body to hold on to extra fluid. With heart failure, that extra fluid can lead to swelling, shortness of breath and more strain on the heart. Eating less sodium helps manage symptoms.
How much sodium should someone with heart failure have?
It depends on the person. Your doctor or dietitian will recommend a daily sodium goal that is right for you, so ask them for a specific number.
What foods are high in sodium?
Common sources include deli meats, bacon and sausage, canned soups, frozen meals, pizza, bread and rolls, cheese, chips, pickles, soy sauce and many restaurant and fast foods.
How do I read a food label for sodium?
Check the milligrams of sodium per serving and the serving size. As a general guide, 5% Daily Value or less per serving is considered low, and 20% or more is considered high.
What can I use instead of salt?
Try herbs, spices, garlic, onion, lemon or lime juice, vinegar and salt-free seasoning blends. Check with your doctor before using salt substitutes, since many contain potassium.
This article is general information, not medical, legal or financial advice. Coverage rules can change, so confirm details with Medicare, your plan or your care team.
