Healthier Living Tip: More Herbs, Less Salt in Arlington, VA

Everyone knows that living a healthier, more active lifestyle is important. Not only does it benefit the body, but the mind and spirit as well. Of course, acting on what we know to be true is often easier said than done.

From images of all-you-can eat dinner portions from your local restaurant to celebrities touting the benefits of the latest and greatest weight-loss supplement, it can be easy to forget that better health and nutrition starts at home.

Today’s families need real tips that they can incorporate into their already busy schedules:  a few simple steps that could perhaps lead to bigger changes later on. So if you’ve been thinking about taking that step toward better health for you and your family, National More Herbs, Less Salt Day is for you.

Observed on August 29^th, More Herbs, Less Salt Day encourages people to reduce their daily salt intake by using herbs to flavor home-cooked meals. Although we need a certain amount of sodium in our diets, the average American gets about 3,400 mg of sodium per day. That’s 1,100 more than recommended. And because most processed foods have added sodium, it’s important to limit our intake where we can. So here are 5 herbs that you can use to add flavor to your meals without adding salt.

Basil – this sweet herb blends wonderfully with tomatoes, garlic, and olive oil. Use it in salads, on sandwiches, and of course, in tomato sauce.

Rosemary – a little of this strong, aromatic herb goes a long way. It’s the perfect complement to lamb, pork, and chicken.

Oregano – if you want to give your poultry or seafood an Italian or Greek flair, try a sprinkle of oregano.

Parsley – no kitchen is complete without parsley. Its mild flavor allows other ingredients to shine through. Sprinkle some on roast potatoes or add lemon zest and garlic for a delicious chopped herb condiment.

Chives – with their mild onion flavor, chives are an easy way to add a little kick to any dish. Just add them at the last minute of cooking as heat destroys their flavor. Or use them raw in cold dips, pasta and potato salads, and of course, on baked potatoes.

Another benefit of consuming less salt is a reduced risk of high blood pressure or, at least, a lessening of its severity.  And since right 31% of all adults in America have high blood pressure, kicking the salt habit is in everyone’s best interests.