What are common dietary sources that may contain hidden sodium?

Processed foods and canned soups are significant sources of hidden sodium in the diet. This is primarily because many processed foods often contain added salt for flavor enhancement, preservation, or both. Canned soups, for example, usually have high sodium content to improve taste and prolong shelf life, making them a common dietary source of sodium that people may not be fully aware of.

Unlike fresh fruits and vegetables, nuts, whole grains, and lean meats, which typically contain minimal sodium when prepared without additional salt, processed foods can have considerably higher amounts due to the manufacturing process. Understanding these sources is essential for managing sodium intake, especially for individuals monitoring hypertension or looking to maintain cardiovascular health.