Sodium Intake Among Persons Aged ≥2 Years - United States, 2013-2014

What is already known about this topic? Reducing sodium intake can reduce blood pressure; hypertension is a risk factor for cardiovascular disease. According to data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2007-2008, average daily U. S. sodium intake was 3,266 mg, exceeding Healthy People 2020 objectives, and 44% of sodium consumed came from just 10 food types. What is added by this report? The most recent data, from 2013-2014, indicate that average daily U. S. sodium intake is 3,409 mg (excluding salt added at the table), with 44% of intake from 10 food types and 70% from 25 food types, 61% from food obtained at stores, and highest sodium density (mg/1,000 kcal) from food obtained at restaurants. Food types contributing to intake differ by racial /ethnic group, with current data indicating that non-Hispanic Asians might consume a slightly more sodium-dense diet than that of non-Hispanic whites. What are the implications for public health practice? Sodium intake remains high and comes from a variety of food types and places. Monitoring differences in types and sources of intake can help focus sodium reduction measures to reduce blood pressure and cardiovascular disease.