Weighing Yourself
Follow these guidelines when weighing yourself :
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Weigh yourself when you get up in the morning ( after you go to the bathroom but before you eat breakfast ).
� Write your weight in a weight diary . �
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When possible , place your scale on a hard floor , and in the same place each time . Weigh yourself in your pajamas or in the nude .
If you are unsteady when stepping onto the scale , place the scale where you can hold onto a counter . Let go of the counter briefly to check your weight .
If you are unable to weigh yourself , talk with your physician on how to assess for weight gain .
Eating Less Salt
Most people eat more salt than their body needs . Eating less salt ( sodium ) is a key part of managing your heart failure . Where salt goes , water follows .
Patients with heart failure should eat no more than 2000 mg of salt ( sodium ) per day .
Ways to Cut Down on Sodium
Follow these key steps in reducing your sodium :
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Avoid using the salt shaker at the table or when preparing meals . One teaspoon of salt is equal to 2,300 mg of sodium .
Choose unprocessed meats ( fresh or fresh-frozen poultry , fish , or meats ). Avoid deli or canned meats .
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Avoid pre-made , processed foods . Fresh or fresh-frozen fruits and vegetables are naturally low in sodium compared to canned options .
Rinse canned vegetables and tuna before eating .
Avoid salt substitutes . If you want to try a salt substitute , check with your healthcare provider first . Some salt substitutes should not be used because they contain potassium .
Seasoning Guide
Try using fresh or dried herbs and other seasonings . Use this guide to get started . Experiment and find your favorites .
Allspice : Lean ground meats , stews , tomatoes , peaches , applesauce , cranberry sauce , gravies , lean meat
Almond extract : Puddings , fruits
Basil : Fish , lamb , lean ground meats , stews , salads , soups , sauces , fish cocktails
Bay leaves : Lean meats , stews , poultry , soups , tomatoes
Caraway seeds : Lean meats , stews , soups , salads , breads , cabbage , asparagus , noodles
Chives : Salads , sauces , soups , lean meat dishes , vegetables
Cider vinegar : Salads , vegetables , sauces
Cinnamon : Fruits ( especially apples ), breads , pie crusts
Curry powder : Lean meats ( especially lamb ), veal , chicken , fish , tomatoes , tomato soup , mayonnaise
Dill : Fish sauces , soups , tomatoes , cabbages , carrots , cauliflower , green beans , cucumbers , potatoes , salads , macaroni , lean beef , lamb , chicken , fish
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