Good Day to you!   Everywhere I look in the supermarket, all foods seem to have very high Sodium numbers.  I suffer with edema, swelling of the ankles.  What is the minimum amount of salt I need each day and the maximum.....better yet, for each meal?  Your response will be very much appreciated!

The Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommends 1,500 milligrams, or less, per day; while the American Heart Association recommends 2,200 milligrams, or less, per day.

It's good that you're watching sodium for your edema and, as you know, that contributes to water weight -- that hides a true weight loss.

The best solution is to eat more fresh foods, and less processed (frozen, canned, etc.) food.  Increasing potassium - found mostly in fruits and vegetables - is a recommended strategy for everyone.  The recommendations are for at least 4,700 milligrams per day.  Most of us get far less.

Keep an eye on your alli Nutrition Log.  It will help you track both sodium and potassium intake.

I hope this helps.  Please let me know if you need anything else.

Pat Baird, MA, RD, registered dietitian