Surprisingly Salty Foods That Could Be Wrecking Your Health

5. Bread and Baked Goods – Unexpected Sodium Sources

While bread and baked goods may not immediately come to mind when thinking about high-sodium foods, they can be significant contributors to overall sodium intake. Many commercial breads contain added salt for flavor and texture improvement. For example, a single slice of white bread can contain 150-200 milligrams of sodium, and a store-bought muffin can contain 300 milligrams or more. Because these products are often consumed in large quantities—think multiple slices of bread with sandwiches or a couple of muffins for breakfast—the sodium can quickly add up. To reduce sodium, choose whole grain bread or make your own bread at home with controlled amounts of salt.

6. Dairy Products – Sodium in the Creamy Culprits

Processed dairy products, particularly cheese, can be hidden sources of sodium. Processed cheese slices or cheese spreads often contain high amounts of sodium, with a single slice containing around 300 milligrams of sodium. Even cream cheese and cottage cheese can have significant sodium levels. For example, a serving of cream cheese can contain up to 200 milligrams of sodium, and cheddar cheese can have upwards of 200 milligrams per ounce. While fresh dairy products like milk and yogurt are generally low in sodium, processed cheese and other dairy-based snacks can add up quickly. To limit sodium, opt for fresh cheeses like mozzarella or ricotta, or choose lower-sodium cheese options.