Sodium management in hypertension: meal planning grocery shopping and dining out

[JerryM]

I was recently diagnosed with hypertension at my annual checkup, and my doctor has started me on a low-dose medication while strongly recommending lifestyle changes. I'm committed to managing this, but I'm struggling with the dietary aspect, specifically finding practical ways to reduce sodium when so much pre-packaged food and restaurant meals are loaded with it. For others who have successfully managed their blood pressure long-term, what were your most effective strategies for meal planning and grocery shopping to stay under the sodium limits, and how did you navigate social situations like dining out or family gatherings without making it a constant point of stress or feeling deprived?