You already know that you should exercise regularly, but let's discuss your salt intake. Your heart and salt are not buddies. Reducing your risk of salt, especially if you have a family history of high blood pressure or heart disease, could help save your life. When you consume salt, you make it more difficult for your kidneys to gather fluid and for you to urinate, which leads to fluid retention. This fluid raises your blood pressure, and in turn, puts strain on your heart. The tiny blood vessels that lead to your kidneys are also strained. Many people look at fat and calorie content listed on packaged and processed foods, but are you paying attention to listed sodium levels? Reduce salt intake by trying these seasonings instead of salt to flavor your food: herbs, spices, garlic, onions, peppers, lemons, limes and garlic. Your heart will thank you!