According the latest report just released by the 2010 Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee, most Americans are falling short of their daily potassium needs, which could be wrecking havoc their blood pressure.  Over 55% of Americans have high blood pressure or are on their way to getting high blood pressure in the very near future. Individuals with chronic high blood pressure increase their risk of developing heart disease and stroke, two of the top three killers of Americans. While losing excess weight, reducing sodium in the diet, and being physically active all can reduce blood pressure, so can consuming adequate amounts of potassium-rich foods.

“A recent study in the American Journal of Heath Promotion estimates that 1.5 million cases of high blood pressure could be eliminated and over $2 billion in health care costs could be save annually if Americans would reduce their daily intake by a mere 400 milligrams (mg) of sodium. Americans are consuming over 3,000 mg of sodium daily, way above the upper level recommended at 2,300 mg.  While sodium comes from the salt (sodium chloride) that you use to season your foods, the majority of the sodium in your diet is from processed foods.”

Use this chart to help you reduce your daily sodium consumption and your blood pressure.