Time to Think About Sodium...

We talk about eating healthy without refined sugars and extra fat, but I propose that it's time we think about sodium as well!

Believe me...no one loves good SALTY fries better than this girl! And I certainly have no intentions of cutting salt completely out of my diet. :)

However, I think where the excess salt comes into our diet is not through the salt shaker. It hides out in so many of our different packaged foods and processed foods. Things we tend to also give to our kids as 'easy lunch foods' every day, chips, crackers, lunchmeat, snack bars, etc. And, our family does eat those things also...I just try to make that more in moderation--looking for lower sodium snacks or bake/make my own. 

But that sodium especially hides out in fast foods and restaurant foods in astounding numbers! I mean crazy amounts of salt. 

I have not been one to take time to think about how much sodium my family is eating. But after eating at home for pretty much every meal the past few months with very little outside food that I have not prepared and being a more healthy-minded, plan-ahead grocery shopper, I can definitely see that this makes a difference! This is an important part of my family's health and will also help to deter future health problems in their life.

So, we have been trying this out with our seasonings. Actually, I have been. My kids don't really know about it yet, but they have eaten it for many days and not even noticed. :)

I still use salt, but I have been using the Nutritional Yeast in place of adding extra salt or even as a sprinkle on top of soup, etc. 

Observations:

- It takes a good liberal sprinkle to add more flavor in my opinion.

- It does have a unique taste just by itself, but added in with most things is not distinguishable.

- It is not a 'Fix-All' salt substitute, but it does add enough flavor to lessen the salt needed--and that's what I was going for. 

- So...yes, I recommend!

We tried it on my home-popped popcorn tonight. With melted Unsalted Butter, Lots of N.Y., and just a little sprinkle of salt! 

 As you can see...it was enjoyed...

Low sodium popcorn that actually added to their digestive health; I call that a win!

I feel like just slight changes here and there, and all things in moderation definitely help for an overall healthy diet. Perfect? No, because let's be real...life get's busy and sometimes you just need to grab...

An In-N-Out Double Double Burger with Animal Fries!

But, working on our mindset and the mindset of our kids to think overall healthy and balanced in their food choices.