It’s estimated that approximately one in six children between the ages of eight and 16 have elevated blood pressure, due largely to a diet high in sodium. In fact, approximately nine out of 10 kids in the U.S. consume more than the recommended daily intake of sodium.

The majority of dietary sodium comes in the form of salt, which is prevalent in processed foods. Diets high in sodium can lead to high blood pressure, including in children.

The dangers of high blood pressure have been duly noted – the condition is a huge risk factor for the development of heart disease. High blood pressure can do significant damage to the body, without the person even knowing it. Symptoms may not even develop until years of bodily harm has been done as a result of high blood pressure. Left uncontrolled, high blood pressure can cause disability, and even a fatal heart attack or stroke.

Reducing children’s dietary sodium is important in an effort to lower high blood pressure, which can greatly reduce the chances of heart disease in adulthood. This is especially true for those who are overweight or obese.

Parents and caregivers are encouraged to lower the sodium in children’s diets by preparing, selling and serving foods that have minimal salt. Encouraging children to eat more fruits and vegetables without any added salt is also recommended, as well as reading labels on food products at the grocery store or requesting nutritional information on menu items at restaurants.