High amounts of salt or sodium in the diet can raise blood pressure and put people at risk for heart disease. The 2015-2020 Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommend that adults consume less than 2,300 milligrams of sodium per day. However, the average American consumes approximately 3,400 milligrams of sodium per day.
While canned soups make an easy and quick meal, many contain high amounts of sodium. To provide health-conscious customers with more nutritious options, brands such as Campbell's, Progresso and Amy's have begun offering low-sodium soup lines. Here are some of their picks that are better for you.
Campbell's Soup
The classic All-American soup company shifted to lower-sodium recipes back in 2009 by tweaking ingredients in popular flavors, according to a company news release. However, due to sluggish sales, Campbell Soup began adding sodium back to its products, according to a 2011 Reuters report.
Today, Campbell Soup launches a line of soups called Healthy Request. Health claims soups are made with whole grains and lean meats; Campbell's website says the line supports heart health. Campbell's also offers low-sodium soups in three different flavors: chicken, chicken noodle and cream of mushroom.
Progresso
Progresso, another well-known soup brand, has also begun offering healthier options. In its line of low-sodium soups, Progresso offers 10 different flavors that contain 25% less sodium than traditional recipes. Some of the flavors include Creamy Tomato Basil, Hearty Minestrone Soup, and Grilled Chicken Noodles.
Amy's
Amy's is a favorite among vegetarians for its frozen dinners, international favorites, and of course, soups. Amy's offers a "sodium-conscious" line of soups that are made with "low sodium" (compared to traditional soups) or "light" sodium (50% less sodium than traditional soups), depending on the flavor you choose. The company offers 11 different low-sodium soups to choose from, all organic, including butternut squash, chili, lentil greens and thick tomato bisque.
