The most recent American Heart Association dietary guidelines, are somewhat less critical of our sugar intake.  To be sure, it is very important to keep our overall weight down since that reduces blood pressure and the risk for stroke and heart attack.  On the other hand, The Heart Association now says that "a specific limit for sugar is not suggested because there is currently no compelling data that will allow scientists to set such a level.  Eating fruits that are high in sugar and added sugars, such as sugary soft drinks and baked goods, is not bad in itself, but these foods have very little nutritional value and they cause individuals to omit healthier alternatives."

On salt intake The Heart Association is steady on its recommendation, that "the general public consume no more than 6 grams of sodium daily.  Limiting our salt intake, it says, "can result in a substantial decrease in blood pressure both for people with elevated blood pressure and those with normal blood pressure.

And one more tip: "given the difficulty many people--especially those between 25 and 45 years of age"-- experience in trying to maintain weight loss over time, guidelines recommend efforts to prevent weight gain in the first place.  For a copy of this script and a link to more information on healthy diets, access our Web site, speakingofheatlh.com.  Speaking of Health, I'm Dr. Steven Andrew Davis, for CBS News.

Reference:   The American Heart Association