What is the upper limit for daily sodium intake recommended for a typical American diet?

The recommended upper limit for daily sodium intake in a typical American diet is 2,300 mg/day. This guideline is set by health organizations, including the American Heart Association, aiming to help reduce the risk of high blood pressure and cardiovascular diseases. Excessive sodium intake can lead to water retention, increased blood volume, and heightened blood pressure, which are risk factors for heart disease and stroke.

Understanding this limit is crucial for maintaining a balanced diet, as many processed and restaurant foods can be high in sodium, often exceeding this recommended amount. Monitoring sodium intake helps individuals manage their overall health and supports better dietary practices in the long term.