Is Salt Intake Correlated with Teen Obesity?

In the world we live in today portion sizes are growing, along with America’s waist sizes. It has been known that consuming increased portion sizes and sugar-sweetened beverages are linked to obesity; but what about salt intake? Many of us do not take a step back and think about the sodium content of our foods or how much salt we are consuming. News Channel Twelve recently aired a Heath Day Report on salt consumption, specifically in teenagers and its relationship with increased obesity rates in America.

A week long investigation was done on 760 teenage high school kids, both male and female. Results of the study shocked researchers. Ninety-seven percent of teenage high school students were consuming about 3,280 milligrams of sodium per day, doubling the daily-recommended intake of 1,500 milligrams per day.

This high intake of dietary sodium was associated with a higher risk of adolescent obesity, even after other factors that can contribute to overweight and obesity were controlled for in this study, such as drinking sugar sweetened sodas and other beverages. The researchers are quick to note that it is not a “cause and effect” but rather a strong correlation. Yet, it still warrants our attention.

So what can we do to decrease salt consumption among teen populations?

-Parents are urged to take the first line of action. Children and adolescents tend to model off their parents. Setting a good example and instilling healthy eating habits in children early on in life will set your child up to carry these habits with them through adulthood.

-High salt and sodium content are usually found in processed or canned items. Make an effort to purchase and cook with as many fresh and unprocessed foods as possible. Instant foods such as instant cereal packets, pastas and rice dishes are a few examples of foods high in sodium. Try to avoid buying these foods.

-Instead of takeout, make an effort to prepare home cooked meals. Cooking from scratch ensures that you are aware of exactly what is being added to your food.

-If recipes call for high levels of salt, simply omit it or just use half. Spices and herbs are great alternatives to using salt so flavor won’t be compromised.

– If canned items are completely necessary, purchase lower sodium options if they are available. If not, rinse canned foods under flowing water to wash away some of the sodium.

Make it a goal to try one or two of these tips today. Remember, little steps can go a long way!

Your turn to take action: How will you limit sodium intake for you and your family?