Prevalence of Excess Sodium Intake in the United States - NHANES, 2009-2012

What is already known about this topic? Excess sodium intake is a modifiable risk factor for hypertension and cardiovascular disease. However, according to data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2005- 2008, 88%-99% of Americans consumed dietary sodium in excess of 2010 Dietary Guidelines for Americans. What is added by this report? During 2009-2012, most Americans, including 89% of adults and over 90% of children, consumed dietary sodium in excess of 2015-2020 Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommendations. Adults with hypertension consumed slightly less sodium than other adults, but 86% still exceeded 2,300 mg per day. What are the implications for public health practice? To address the continued widespread overconsumption of sodium, a multifaceted strategy is needed, including changes in individual lifestyles and how foods are produced. Reducing sodium added to foods by food manufacturers and restaurants is a key strategy for lowering population-wide dietary sodium intake. © 2016, Department of Health and Human Services. All rights reserved.