Salt at the Table: A Common Restaurant Habit That Could Harm Your Arteries

Americans eat out multiple times weekly, and restaurant meals generally contain more sodium than home-cooked ones. This extra salt raises blood pressure and can stiffen arteries over time, increasing the risk of heart disease, stroke and kidney problems. Reducing sodium intake can quickly improve blood pressure (within days) and arterial function (weeks to months). To support heart health, use herbs and spices instead of salt and consider dining out less often, since many sauces and condiments also contribute to high sodium intake.