Hyper for a Sodium Free Diet

The Kentucky Health Facts’ most recent report states that the percentage of adults who have hypertension in Johnson County is 59%. Johnson County is among the top 10 counties in Kentucky for other health diseases as well. Studies have shown that there is a natural link between nutrition, physical activity and behaviors toward healthy lifestyles. 

The Johnson County SNAP-Ed assistant held a ten-week series of lessons that utilized the Healthy Choices for Everybody curriculum with a group of eight participants. They talked about having high blood pressure and suffering from other health issues related to having hypertension. We focused on areas related to portion control, limiting salt and sodium along with the importance of physical activity. 

The group learned how to cut out hidden sodium from condiments and processed foods. We talked about reducing and removing salt form recipes whenever possible and to purchase lower sodium products. They also gained knowledge about utilizing herbs and spices that would enhance foods natural flavors. All the participants in the group used the methods we shared in our meetings at home and with other family members. Their goal was to reduce the need for blood pressure medications by eating healthier meals, meal planning, portion control and physical activity. 

By the end of the ten-week series all eight participants stated that they had all reduced their salt intake by 50%. One participant told us that her Doctor was going to lower the dose of medication she was taking if she kept up with her new healthy diet. She also told us that she had lost 12 pounds during the ten-week program and would continue using the information she had learned.