17 Surprisingly Salty Foods That Could Be Wrecking Your Health

2. Ready-to-Eat Breakfast Foods – Sodium in Convenience Meals

Pre-packaged breakfast foods like instant oatmeal, granola bars, and breakfast sandwiches can be high in sodium, especially when combined with processed meats or cheeses. For example, a breakfast sandwich from a fast-food chain can contain upwards of 700 milligrams of sodium, and a serving of instant oatmeal often has about 200 milligrams per packet, depending on the brand. These convenience options are often marketed as time-saving, but they can contribute a large portion of your sodium intake, particularly when eaten regularly. To reduce sodium, look for low-sodium oatmeal or create your own healthy breakfast options like overnight oats with fresh fruits and nuts. For breakfast sandwiches, consider making your own at home with whole-grain bread, eggs, and lean meats or vegetarian protein sources.