Salt is a common ingredient in most foods that we consume, and while it adds flavor, it can also lead to health problems if consumed in excess.

The American Heart Association recommends consuming no more than 2,300 milligrams of salt per day, and that can be quite challenging since most of our foods contain added salt. Excessive salt consumption can lead to high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, and kidney disease. Here are six salt-laden ingredients that you should consider removing from your diet.

1. Processed Meats

Processed meats such as bacon, sausages, deli meats, and canned meats contain an excessive amount of salt. These meats are usually high in sodium and added preservatives, which can be detrimental to your health.

According to the American Heart Association, one serving of deli meat contains up to 1,090 milligrams of sodium. Substitute these meats with fresh lean meats such as chicken, turkey, or fish which have a lower sodium content.

2. Processed Snacks

Most snacks such as chips, pretzels, crackers, and popcorn that we love to munch on contain a high amount of salt. These snacks usually have added salt, and when combined with other ingredients, can lead to excessive salt consumption.

A study published in the Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics found that consuming high-salt snacks can lead to weight gain, high blood pressure, and heart disease. Choose unsalted snacks or snacks with low sodium content to reduce your salt intake.

3. Processed Soups

Canned or packaged soups are convenient and easy to prepare, but they are also high in sodium. A single serving of canned soup can contain up to 800 milligrams of sodium.

Consuming these soups on a regular basis can lead to heart disease, high blood pressure, and stroke. Opt for homemade soups which have low sodium content or choose a low-sodium option if you have to consume canned soups.

4. Condiments

Condiments such as ketchup, soy sauce, and salad dressings contain a high amount of salt. Most of us use these condiments in our everyday diet, but they can lead to health problems if consumed in excess.

A tablespoon of salad dressing, for instance, can contain up to 300 milligrams of sodium. Substitute high-salt condiments with herbs, spices, or low-salt options to make your meals healthier.

5. Cheese

Cheese is a beloved food that most of us cannot resist, but it is also high in salt. Cheese varieties such as blue cheese, feta, and parmesan have the highest amount of salt.

Consuming too much cheese can lead to high blood pressure, heart disease, and weight gain. If you have to consume cheese, opt for low-sodium varieties or use cheese in moderation.

6. Bread

Bread is a common food that most of us consume on a daily basis, but it is also high in salt. Bread varieties such as bagels, croissants, and sourdough have a higher salt content than other bread types.

Consuming too much salt can lead to high blood pressure, heart disease, and kidney problems. Choose whole-grain bread which has lower sodium content or opt for low-sodium bread options.

Removing these salt-laden ingredients from your diet can help reduce your salt intake and improve your health. However, it is always advisable to consult a doctor or a nutritionist before making any drastic changes to your diet.