Salt shakedown: How and why you should eat less sodium

In addition to raising blood pressure, too much salt in the diet can have other detrimental effects on the heart, including damaging the inner layer of blood vessels and altering the body’s hormonal and inflammatory response. Following the DASH diet, choosing lower-sodium versions of commonly eaten foods, and skipping the saltshaker can help people eat less salt. To boost flavor without salt, options include salt-free herb and spice blends, lemon or lime zest or juice, and flavored vinegars.