Manchester Life 2018 | Page 77

TIPS FOR better living ADVICE FROM HEALTH CARE PROFESSIONALS FROM SOUTHWESTERN VERMONT HEALTH CARE EAT Be salt savvy. Excess sodium increases your risk of heart disease, hypertension, stroke, and other health problems. Americans get most of their salt—77 percent—not from a shaker, but from processed foods. Read labels and choose low-salt options when possible. Stay hydrated. It is possible to get dehydrated even if you do not feel thirsty. Consuming extra fluids may have benefits including reducing fatigue and headaches, decreasing risk of kidney stones, and improving concentration. For healthy adults aim for about two to three liters per day. Dr. Adam Cohen, SVMC Emergency Medicine special Southwestern Vermont Health Care supplement 75