A lower sodium diet in combination with a potassium-rich diet is associated with a reduced risk of death from ALL causes, according to a study reported in the July 11th, 2011 American Medical Association journal (Archives of Internal Medicine).  This study, which involved over 12,000 participants, showed that those with the highest sodium-potassium ratio had a 46% greater risk of dying from any cause after adjusting for other variables.  How do you change your ratio?  77% of sodium is contained in processed foods (another 11% from the salt shaker when cooking or eating).  Reduce these and combine that step with increasing potassium-rich fruits and vegetables (Butternut Squash, Spinach, Brussels Sprouts, Cucumber, Cantaloupe, Bananas all have over 400 mg of Potassium per serving and offer a good place to start).