Knowing the dangers of excess sodium and putting that knowledge to the test could pay off in more ways than one for a lucky B.C. resident.
By answering questions about sodium on the Healthy Families B.C. website – www.healthyfamiliesbc.ca – until Sunday (Jan. 15), participants are entered to win prizes of new kitchen appliances.
The grand prize is a choice of either $5,000 in groceries or specially selected kitchen appliances. No matter which option the grand prize winner chooses, they will also receive $1,000 worth of meal planning services from a registered dietitian.
Excess sodium intake is linked to elevated blood pressure, which is the leading preventable risk factor for death in B.C. and worldwide.
British Columbians consume more than double the amount of sodium considered adequate to promote good health in adults.
Increasing sodium awareness will make it easier to make healthier choices for you and your family.
A good way to ensure you are getting the right amount of sodium is to always check the nutrition facts label on all packaged foods.
Look for the percentage daily value. Five per cent daily value or less is a little, while 15 per cent or more is a lot. Consumers are advised to read those labels and aim for less than 15 per cent daily value.
Healthy Families B.C. is the ministry’s health promotion and prevention strategy. It is targeted at reducing chronic diseases and obesity levels in the province through healthy eating and physical activity.
The $68.7-million strategy will see the implementation of a variety of healthy living initiatives to improve health and promote wellness in every part B.C.