Pinching SodiumJacqueline Marcus, MS, RD, LD, FADA, Nutrition Consultant in Northfield, Illinois, compares common products.Americans consume, on the average, about 5000 milligrams of sodium each day, twice what is recommended. Processed foods and restaurant meals are major sources.Attaining a low sodium diet is easiest by cutting back on sodium slowly, emphasizing fresh fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Research shows that when people limit their salt intake for as little as 8 to 12 weeks, they can wean themselves from the taste and even find it unappetizing.Here are some sodium-saving strategies. Choose the foods in the left hand column most of the time. When dining out, ask to have food prepared without added salt and have sauces and dressings served on the side.