Shake it up!

You can shake, rattle, and roll. You can shake a leg. But use moderation when you shake the salt container. Decreasing sodium in your diet may help lower blood pressure.

Here are three tips to reduce sodium:

• Don't Use Salt to Flavor Foods -- This includes garlic and onion salt; use garlic or onion powder instead; and season with spices, herbs, or lemon


• Check Labels -- If sodium is one of the first three ingredients listed on the package, it indicates that it is a high-sodium food; use these foods in moderation


• Be Aware of What You Are Eating -- Bouillon cubes, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, olives, luncheon meats, hot dogs, ham, bacon, sausage, American cheese, canned soups and processed cheese are high in sodium

Reducing sodium may be a major shake up to your diet, but it will be a step toward more healthful eating.