How Much Sodium?

When I was diagnosed with CHF,  the doctor told me that I would have to limit my sodium to 2000 mg or less.   At first I stayed at around 2000 mg a day and noticed that I was still retaining water because my ankles were swelling.   So, I cut back on the sodium even more. 

Through experimentation, I've come to the conclusion that any more than 1200 mg a day and I start to retain water again.   I usually keep my sodium down less than 1000 mg a day and rarely go past 1200 mg daily.  I have read stories from others who have to stay around 500-700 mg.  Each person's system is different.

The 2000 mg that your doctor gives out as a guideline is just that, a guideline.   You have to find the level where your body is comfortable.   For me, that is trying to stay under 1000 mg of sodium a day.  At that level,  I can keep the swelling and fluid retention at bay. 

To stay that low and eat 3 meals a day,  you have to look at the sodium in every item you eat and count every milligram.   I have had to rethink snacking, processed foods, drinking, and everything I eat.  Where one time I wouldn't think twice about popping a handful of potato chips in my mouth for a snack,  now those chips would take up a significant part of my daily allowance of sodium and they just aren't that important to me.  Fruit is a much more satisfying snack. 

At first, nothing tasted good without salt.  But finally,  after 5 months, I am finally tasting the flavors of the foods that I am eating and not missing the salt near as much.   Mrs Dash has become my best friend.   I'm able to eat 3 good meals a day and snack in between and even eat some restaurant food and stay under my 1000 mg of sodium a day.  It's become a challenge to me and I never back down from a challenge. 

I'm hoping that my blog will maybe help someone who is struggling with having to limit their sodium intake and can take some inspiration from my discoveries in low salt eating.