American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) Practice Exam 2026 – Comprehensive All-in-One Guide for Exam Success!

Limiting sodium intake is a crucial dietary recommendation for patients diagnosed with hypertension. High sodium levels in the diet can contribute to increased blood pressure by causing the body to retain fluid, which puts additional strain on the heart and blood vessels. The American Heart Association and other health organizations recommend that individuals with hypertension aim to consume less than 2,300 milligrams of sodium per day, with an ideal limit of 1,500 milligrams for most adults.

By reducing sodium intake, patients can often see improvements in their blood pressure readings and overall cardiovascular health. This dietary change can be achieved by avoiding processed foods, which tend to be high in sodium, and choosing fresh or minimally processed options instead. Incorporating more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats (like those found in fish and avocados) can also naturally help reduce sodium intake while improving the overall quality of the diet.