Sodium – The Fluid Regulating Mineral

Sodium, along with potassium and chloride, are the main mineral ions (minerals with an electric charge) that influence the movement of fluids in and out of the body’s cells. It is essential to cell function, acid-base buffering, and electrical conductivity in the body.

Sodium is one mineral that most people have too much of, not too little. For most people, maintaining sufficient levels is not a problem. While there have been documented cases of sodium deficiency, they are quite rare and usually caused by an underlying medical condition.

Many people, including those seeking to lose weight, often restrict the levels of sodium in their diet. Excess sodium can lead to water retention and consequent weight gain, and can make exercise uncomfortable.
 

Food Sources
Sodium is found just about everywhere, and for most people, the problem is too much in the diet.

Recommended Dosage
You only need about 2 grams of sodium daily but most people consume much more. People who have high blood pressure, or those at risk for heart disease, often need to restrict their intake.

Supplements
Due to its abundant availability in the modern diet, it is seldom taken as an individual supplement. It is found as part of some multivitamins, however.

Combines effectively with vitamin B6, vitamin D, magnesium and calcium.

Side Effects & Toxicity
The major effect of excess sodium in the diet is hypertension, or high blood pressure. High sodium levels are also believed to play a major role in heart disease.

Symptoms of Deficiency
Due to the abundance of sodium in most processed foods, deficiency is rarely seen. Signs of sodium deficiency include diarrhea, vomiting, excessive sweating, dizziness, nausea, muscle weakness, and trouble concentrating.