One of the best ways to focus on healthy weight loss is to “stay in balance.” It will mean you should have a healthier heart and stronger bones.

Did you know most Americans use more than twice the 2300 mg of salt (sodium) recommended by Dietary Guidelines? The increased salt usually comes from processed foods — not using the salt shaker. And unfortunately, many of us skimp on potassium rich fruits and vegetables and don’t get enough calcium.

Now, this doesn’t mean you have to slash your salt intake to tastelessness. There is a new thought on Salt … If you boost your consumption of certain foods that contain the other minerals for good health, you can eat foods with salt.

For instance produce has high levels of potassium which can help Lower blood pressure and Blunt the effects of salt in your diet.

The message here is TRY to keep potassium, calcium, magnesium and sodium all in balance. If you follow a good balanced dieting plan, which should be abundant in produce (preferably fresh vegetables & fruit), dairy and whole grains which contain the above minerals and if you restrict processed foods, staying within the 2300mg of Salt daily should be easier.

Also, when you increase your consumption of fresh produce, dairy and whole grains, you are eating less calories. Less calories = weight loss!