In The Community
Bagels and Plain Bread
Photo by Alejandra Cifre González on UnsplashSure, bread is a carb-heavy friend we all know and love, but did you know that even a simple plain bagel can pack in up to 500mg of sodium? That’s just the bread itself—not counting spreads, toppings, or fillings. It’s the same story with your go-to sandwich loaf. Even if it doesn’t taste salty, sodium is often added as a preservative or to enhance the texture.
Cottage Cheese
Photo by Photo By: Kaboompics.com
Cottage cheese may be a protein-packed snack, but its sodium levels can be shockingly high. Half a cup can have up to 400mg of sodium, depending on the brand. Even if you’re pairing it with fresh fruit, the salt content can creep up quickly. Opt for low-sodium varieties if this is your snack of choice.
Canned Vegetables
Photo by Laudia Tysara
Canned veggies might seem like a wholesome shortcut to your daily greens, but don’t let the “healthy” label fool you. A single serving of canned green beans or corn can have over 300mg of sodium—and let’s be honest, most of us eat more than a serving. Rinsing your canned veggies can help cut down on the sodium, or go for no-salt-added options.
Protein Bars
Photo by Hybrid Storytellers on UnsplashProtein bars are marketed as healthy snacks or meal replacements, but they often sneak in sodium to boost flavor or preserve shelf life. Some bars have up to 300-400mg of sodium—close to what you’d find in a small bag of chips. Always check the label, especially if you’re reaching for one after a workout.
Pancakes and Waffles
Photo by American Heritage Chocolate on UnsplashWho knew your breakfast favorites could be hiding so much salt? Even plain, frozen pancakes or waffles can have around 400mg of sodium per serving. Add syrup, butter, or other toppings, and you’ve got a salty-sweet combo that adds up quickly. Homemade versions with baking powder (instead of boxed mixes) can help keep sodium in check.
Salad Dressings
Photo by Anna Pelzer on UnsplashYour leafy greens might be the pinnacle of health, but drizzling on bottled salad dressing can instantly change that. Many store-bought dressings contain 200-300mg of sodium per tablespoon—and let’s face it, who stops at just one? Look for low-sodium versions, or whip up your own vinaigrette with olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs.
Flavored Oatmeal
Photo by Melissa Di Rocco on UnsplashYes, even your wholesome oatmeal isn’t safe. Instant oatmeal packets—especially the flavored kinds—often include salt as a flavor enhancer. One serving can sneak in 200-300mg of sodium, making your breakfast less innocent than you thought. Go for plain oats and jazz them up with fresh fruit and spices like cinnamon.
Non-Dairy Milks
Photo by Sandi Benedicta on UnsplashThink almond milk is all about clean eating? Think again. Many non-dairy milks are fortified with sodium to improve taste and extend shelf life. Depending on the brand, a single cup can have 150-200mg of sodium—higher if you go for flavored varieties like vanilla or chocolate.
Now that you know where salt is hiding, there are ways to cut back without sacrificing flavor. For one, make the habit of reading labels. Even “healthy” foods can be sodium traps, so always check the nutrition facts, especially for packaged items. Another thing you can do is rely more on fresh foods like fruits, veggies, and proteins. Sodium loves to lurk in unexpected places, but with a little awareness and good choices, you can keep things balanced.
Brickmakers by Selva Almada (108 pages)
This haunting novella from Argentine author Selva Almada starts with a bang—literally, as two boys lie dying from a fatal fight. From there, Almada weaves a raw, emotional tale about cycles of abuse, masculinity, and generational trauma. It’s a story about anger, love, and everything in between, written with the kind of precision that makes every sentence hit like a gut punch.
The Premonition by Banana Yoshimoto (128 pages)
Banana Yoshimoto’s novella is a quiet, contemplative masterpiece. It follows a teenager uncovering long-buried truths about her childhood and family, told in Yoshimoto’s trademark minimalist style. This isn’t just a story; it’s an experience—one that feels like having an intimate conversation with an old friend about the secrets that shaped you.
Boulder by Eva Baltasar (112 pages)
This sapphic literary gem from Catalan author Eva Baltasar follows a nameless protagonist who uproots her life to move to Reykjavik with her lover, Samsa. It’s a sensual, introspective exploration of love, loneliness, and identity, written with lyrical prose that makes you feel every longing glance and whispered word.
Itzá by Rios de La Luz (under 200 pages)
If you love magical realism with a fierce emotional core, “Itzá” is for you. Rios de La Luz’s debut novella tells the story of a young girl reclaiming her body and identity after trauma, blending dreamlike imagery with powerful themes of resilience and empowerment. This book will break your heart and put it back together.
Peluda by Melissa Lozada-Oliva (96 pages)
Okay, technically this one’s poetry, but “Peluda” reads like an intimate diary you can’t put down. Salvadoran-American poet Melissa Lozada-Oliva delves into femininity, identity, and the immigrant experience with sharp wit and unflinching honesty. It’s funny, it’s poignant, and it’s the kind of book that feels like it was written just for you.
Foster by Claire Keegan (88 pages)
In this tender, perfectly crafted novella, a young girl is sent to live with distant relatives in rural Ireland. Over the course of the story, she experiences unexpected kindness and care, shedding light on the transformative power of love and attention. Keegan’s writing is spare but deeply affecting, making every word count.
The Yellow Wallpaper by Charlotte Perkins Gilman (64 pages)
A classic for a reason, “The Yellow Wallpaper” is a chilling look at mental health, societal expectations, and the suffocating confines of gender roles. As the narrator’s reality unravels, so does the wallpaper in her room—a creeping, gothic symbol of her descent into madness. It’s unsettling, unforgettable, and way ahead of its time.
Giovanni’s Room by James Baldwin (160 pages)
James Baldwin’s “Giovanni’s Room” is an intimate exploration of identity, love, and shame. It follows David, an American expat in Paris, as he grapples with his relationship with Giovanni, an Italian bartender. With its lush prose and devastating honesty, this novella will stay with you long after you close the final page.
Short books don’t waste a single word, and that’s part of their magic. They’re perfect for when you want to be transported but don’t have the time (or attention span) for a lengthy epic. So grab a cozy blanket, make yourself a cup of tea, and lose yourself in one of these books for a few hours.- 6 Must-Read Fiction Books by Latina Authors: Fantasy, Romance, and More ›
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Take a Walk and Actually Notice Your Surroundings
Photo by Christian Gertenbach on UnsplashHit up a nearby park or trail and enjoy the crisp air and the last of the fall leaves. There’s something grounding about taking a moment to pause and appreciate the season before it’s gone. Bring a warm drink if you want, but even a short walk can work wonders for your mood.
Bake Something Seasonal
Photo by Monika Grabkowska on UnsplashYou don’t need to be a professional baker to enjoy some seasonal treats. Apple crisps, pumpkin muffins, or even a batch of oatmeal cookies can bring all the cozy vibes. The goal isn’t perfection—it’s the smell of something delicious wafting through your kitchen.
Light a Fire—Even if It’s Just Candles
Photo by Hayden Scott on UnsplashIf you’ve got access to a fire pit, great. If not, lighting a few candles or turning on your coziest lamps can create the same calming effect. Pair it with a good book or some music, and you’ve got yourself a low-key but memorable evening.
Rewatch a Comfort Movie
Photo by Adrian Swancar on UnsplashSometimes, the best way to embrace the season is through a movie that feels like fall. Think When Harry Met Sally, Dead Poets Society, or anything that makes you want to curl up under a blanket. No need to overthink it—just go for whatever feels right.
Cook a Meal That Feels Like Fall
Photo by Kevin McCutcheon on UnsplashThis doesn’t have to be elaborate. It could be a simple soup, roasted vegetables, some tacos, or even just a warm loaf of bread with butter. There’s something incredibly satisfying about eating something hearty as the days get shorter and colder.
Spend Time Outside (Before It’s Too Cold)
Photo by Holly Mandarich on UnsplashTake advantage of the season’s still-manageable weather. Whether it’s a quick backyard hangout, a leisurely bike ride, or just sitting on your porch with a blanket, being outside can help you feel connected to the moment.
Go to a Farmer's Market or Local Shop
Photo by Kyle Nieber on UnsplashFarmers markets and local stores often carry the best of what’s left of the season—squash, apples, handmade goods. Even a short trip to browse can help you feel in tune with the fall, and you might find something special to take home.
Start Getting Your Space Winter-Ready
Photo by Kelly Sikkema on UnsplashUse this weekend to transition your home for the colder months. Swap out lightweight throws for heavier ones, add some warm lighting, or bring in a few seasonal decorations. It’s not about overhauling your space; just make it feel a little more inviting.
Take an Afternoon to Unwind
Photo by Sweet Life on UnsplashWhether it’s journaling, meditating, or just sitting quietly with a cup of tea, give yourself permission to slow down. Fall’s end is a good reminder to pause before the busy holiday season takes over.
Catch a Sunset
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Photo by Anastasiia Krutota on UnsplashThe late fall sunsets are worth stopping for—soft light, vibrant colors, and that calm feeling as the day winds down. You don’t need to go anywhere fancy; even watching from your own backyard can be a simple, reflective way to say goodbye to the season.
Fall might be fleeting, but it’s not gone yet. Use this weekend to take a breather, enjoy what’s around you, and give yourself a little time to settle into the colder months ahead.
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