High blood pressure is a prevalent **chronic condition** today, often linked to high sodium intake. Reducing salt is vital, as sodium retains water, boosting blood volume and heart strain, thus elevating blood pressure. Recognizing foods with hidden sodium is crucial for hypertension patients.

Ditch the Sodium: Foods You Need to Avoid

Many processed foods, like instant noodles, canned goods, and frozen dinners, are loaded with _salt_. This enhances flavor and preservation but can wreak havoc on your blood pressure. Hidden sodium in processed foods

Check Labels: Reduce Hidden Sodium

Pickled items such as kimchi and relish are notoriously salty. Salt is heavily used here for fermentation and storage, making these a no-go for those watching sodium. Sauces and condimentsβ€”soy sauce, oyster sauce, and even salad dressingβ€”are small in serving but big in salt. Cutting these can make a noticeable difference. For more insights into healthier choices, explore our [Diet Therapy](/herbal-medicine/diet-therapy/) section.

Re-Evaluate Your Diet: Identify Salt Sources

Processed meats, like ham, sausage, and bacon, pack in sodium as a preservative and flavor boost. Similarly, certain cheeses, especially the processed kinds, hide significant salt quantities to enhance taste and texture. Even soups labeled "low sodium" might surprise you. Many canned soups aren't as salt-free as you think. Break this sodium cycle by visiting our [Herbal Medicine](/herbal-medicine/) page for alternatives.

Revamp Your Meals: Opt for Fresh Choices

Bread and muffins might not taste salty, but they're sneaky. Salt helps dough rise, so they're worth monitoring. Ready-to-eat cereals with some flavors can also sneak in sodium for taste enhancement. Fast food like burgers, fries, and fried chicken all use plenty of salt during preparation. Similarly, snacks such as chips, popcorn, and salted nuts often contain more sodium than anticipated. For better health, learn about [Qi & Blood](/tcm-basics/qi-blood/) in maintaining a balanced diet. A seemingly non-salty diet may still have "hidden salt." Hypertension patients should read **food labels carefully**, opting for low or no-sodium choices. Prioritize fresh, natural ingredients, and use herbs and salt-free spices to boost flavor. By adjusting your diet, you can manage blood pressure and improve overall health. Hypertension patients choosing fresh foods

Make Changes: Feel the Impact on Your Health

In one sentence, if you identify high-sodium food in your diet, immediately switch to low-sodium options and you'll take a big step toward better blood pressure management.