Which item on a menu would be lowest in sodium for a 2000-mg sodium diet?

Which item on a menu would be lowest in sodium for a 2000-mg sodium diet?

• A. Canned soup
• B. Processed deli meat
• C. Fresh apple
• D. Cheese

Answer: (C)

Low-sodium eating means leaning toward fresh, unprocessed foods because they haven’t had salt added for flavor or preservation. A fresh apple contains virtually no sodium, with no added salt, so it contributes minimal sodium to the daily limit. In contrast, canned soup often contains a large amount of sodium per serving to enhance taste and shelf life, even among “low-sodium” varieties. Processed deli meat is typically high in sodium due to curing and preservatives, and a few slices can quickly use a substantial portion of the daily allowance. Cheese also carries a notable sodium content from aging and flavoring processes. For a 2000 mg per day plan, the apple stands out as the lowest-sodium option.

Low-sodium eating means leaning toward fresh, unprocessed foods because they haven’t had salt added for flavor or preservation. A fresh apple contains virtually no sodium, with no added salt, so it contributes minimal sodium to the daily limit. In contrast, canned soup often contains a large amount of sodium per serving to enhance taste and shelf life, even among “low-sodium” varieties. Processed deli meat is typically high in sodium due to curing and preservatives, and a few slices can quickly use a substantial portion of the daily allowance. Cheese also carries a notable sodium content from aging and flavoring processes. For a 2000 mg per day plan, the apple stands out as the lowest-sodium option.