By Dr. Brian McDonough, Medical Editor

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - Several years ago the American Medical Association took a strong stand warning people about the dangers of too much salt and excessive sugar in the diet. Sadly, things have not changed very much since that time because there is no doubt we consume far too much of each.

Reducing sugar and salt is important because there is a direct link between sodium and high blood pressure, and sugar? Well, it’s everywhere.

Sadly, far too much is added to preserve foods, cakes and pies. As for the American Medical Association, they are not going to give up. They know how important this is and you should expect public service announcements and education over the next decade as the AMA tries to help people make informed decisions.

Now, this is much along the lines of the American Heart Association talking about cholesterol.