Low Sodium Meal Plan: 7-Day Heart Health Guide

Follow this 7-day low sodium meal plan to support heart health. Each day targets 1,500–2,300 mg sodium with simple, satisfying meals and a grocery list.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many mg of sodium per day is considered low sodium?
A low-sodium diet typically means staying under 2,300 mg per day — the upper limit set by the U.S. Dietary Guidelines. The American Heart Association recommends an ideal target of 1,500 mg per day for adults with high blood pressure or heart disease.
What foods can I eat on a low-sodium meal plan?
Fresh or frozen vegetables, fruits, unsalted nuts, legumes, whole grains, fresh meat and fish, eggs, plain dairy, and herbs and spices are all low-sodium staples. Avoid canned goods with added salt, processed meats, fast food, and condiments like soy sauce and ketchup.
How quickly does cutting sodium lower blood pressure?
Research shows measurable reductions can occur within one week. A 2023 NIH-funded study published in JAMA found that 75% of participants saw lower systolic blood pressure on a low-sodium diet, with an average drop of 7 mm Hg — comparable to a first-line blood pressure medication.
Is a low-sodium diet the same as the DASH diet?
They overlap significantly but are not identical. The DASH diet limits sodium to 2,300 mg per day (with a 1,500 mg stricter version) while also emphasizing specific food groups. A low-sodium diet focuses primarily on salt reduction without the full DASH framework.
What seasonings can I use instead of salt?
Fresh and dried herbs (basil, oregano, dill, rosemary), spices (black pepper, cumin, smoked paprika), citrus juice and zest, fresh garlic, ginger, and vinegar all add depth without sodium. Sodium-free seasoning blends like Mrs. Dash are widely available and a great pantry staple.
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