In our efforts to lead a healthy lifestyle and either lose
weight or maintain it, we normally focus our efforts on getting plenty of
exercise, taking vitamins and supplements, and eating a healthy diet. While
these factors are very important to a healthy weight loss program, many believe
that too much sodium or salt could hinder weight loss efforts or cause weight
gain. Exactly what causes people to gain weight or lose weight?
In order to lose weight permanently and in a healthy manner,
we must burn more fat calories than we eat. This is a very simple yet very
important definition since there are various other things we often do that
cause us to lose or gain weight that are neither effective nor permanent.
Permanent, effective weight loss only occurs when fat is reduced and a diet
that's high in sodium will not aid with fat reduction.
A diet that's high in sodium or salt causes water retention.
When you retain water you will gain weight, but it's this weight gain is not
permanent. On the other hand, when you lower your sodium intake, temporary
weight loss is possible. Keep in mind that this weight loss is temporary since
you have lost only water weight.
High sodium diets should be avoided since they are bad for
you. Not because of the temporary weight gain you may experience, but because
of the effects it has on your cardiovascular system, digestive system, immune
system, and blood pressure. Generally, consuming too much sodium isn't good for
your health. The general rule is that people should consume no more than 2400
mg of sodium each day, but the average American consumes in excess of 3500 mg
daily.
For the sake of your health, take the time to read labels
and limit the amount of sodium you consume to less than 2400 mg daily. If you
were to reduce your sodium intake to less than 1800 mg daily you would likely
lose several pounds rather quickly. The human body requires just 400-800 mg of
sodium per day for operate optimally.
You should get used to reading labels and paying attention
to the fat, calories, sodium, and sugar content in foods you eat. You should
avoid using table salt, instant foods, sport drinks, Soy Sauce, MDG, and many
canned foods. Canned soup is normally has a high sodium content. While these
foods are known to have high sodium contents, you should check all labels
carefully.
You can often offset some of the negative effects of eating
a high sodium diet be adding additional potassium. However, it is best to
reduce the amount of sodium you consume while adding potassium to your diet.
We need to understand that our health is our most valuable
commodity. We can maintain our health while losing weight by burning more fat
than we consume. You can burn extra fat with regular exercise and nutritious
vitamin supplements. By eating a diet that is low fat and including high fiber
foods like 100% whole grains, fruits, vegetables, beans, and nuts you will be
setting yourself up for permanent weight loss success.
One other thing you can do to offset some of the effects of
a high sodium diet is to add more potassium which will offset some of the
negative effects. It is best to reduce your consumption of sodium while you add
more potassium to your diet. This will lead to a healthy, long life and you
being the best that you can be.
Don't waste your time and money. If you want to lose weight
fast, we have reviewed several successful diet plans for quick weight loss.EzineArticles.com by: Ricardo_D_Argence