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Sodium regulates the body’s fluid balance

The main function of sodium is to regulate the body’s fluid balance.

Sodium

  • Sodium regulates the body’s fluid balance.
  • Many foods naturally contain sodium and that amount would be enough to meet an adult’s essential sodium needs.
  • Excessive blood sodium levels can disrupt many vital functions.

Sodium

Sodium is mainly obtained from food in the form of table salt or foods that naturally contain salt. However, dietary sodium has little effect on blood sodium levels as the kidneys remove excess salt. 

Sodium is one of the most important salts in the body. It is essential for life, being a key substance in maintaining the membrane tension of all cells. Excessive blood sodium levels can disrupt many vital functions.

Sources of sodium in the diet 

Sodium in salt is a prerequisite for the normal functioning of the body. While we need salt every day, excessive use is not recommended. 

Many foods naturally contain sodium and that amount would be enough to meet an adult’s essential sodium needs. Cow’s milk, meat, and eggs, for example, are excellent natural sources of sodium. 

Most common sources of salt in the Swedish diet are bread and other cereal products, meat products, cheese, spice mixtures and sauces, and processed snacks. These foods contain hidden salt that is industrially processed, which means that it lacks the minerals and micronutrients obtained from natural salt. 

Natural salts are the most favourable source of salt for the body as they contain minerals and micronutrients important for the body, such as potassium, calcium, magnesium, and iron

What is the recommended sodium intake? 

Recommended salt intake for adults is no more than 6 grammes per day which equals to about one teaspoon. 

Reference values for sodium

For adults: 135-145 mmol/l

Reference levels may vary depending on the laboratory and the test analysis method.

Low sodium level (hyponatremia)

There are basically two causes of low sodium levels (hyponatremia): either too much sodium is lost or too much water accumulates in the body.

Typically, low blood sodium levels are the result of heavy physical exercise-induced sweating. Fluid and salts are lost along with sweat, creating an imbalance in the body’s fluid and salt balance.

Mild hyponatraemia is common in patients with congestive heart failure and should not be treated with additional salt or saline tablets. This can lead to swelling and worsening symptoms of heart failure. Loss of sodium caused, for example, by prolonged vomiting or diarrhoea is also a common reason for low sodium values. 

Low sodium levels are linked to cardiac arrhythmia and weakness. Very low levels (less than 120 mmol/L) can lead to convulsions and impaired consciousness. 

High sodium level

Compared to low sodium levels, elevated sodium levels (hypernatremia) are much less common. In fact, elevated levels can only happen when, for some reason, the body is not able to replace the water lost.

A rare disease of the pituitary region blocks the production of the water hormone, as a result of which the patient may urinate more than ten litres a day. The patient is unable to drink enough liquids to replace the water lost in urine, which is why the sodium value increases. Excessive blood sodium levels can disrupt many vital functions.

FAQ

Fluid balance

Monitoring fluid balance involves keeping track of daily fluid intake and output. A healthy adult needs about 2-3 liters of fluids per day. Fluid balance can also be monitored by observing the color and amount of urine and by regularly checking body weight.

Minerals

Manganese can affect the quality of drinking water by giving it a metallic taste and staining the water brown, which can cause discoloration on clothes and household appliances. When manganese levels are high, the water can also be harmful to health, especially for children and pregnant women.

The recommended daily intake of chromium for an adult is about 25-35 micrograms. Chromium is an important trace element that promotes the metabolism of macronutrients and the function of insulin in the body. Chromium intake is usually ensured through a varied diet.

Magnesium is a vital mineral that participates in over 300 enzyme reactions in the body, supporting functions such as muscle and nerve operation, energy production, and electrolyte balance. Magnesium also helps maintain normal heart rhythm and is important for the health of bones and teeth. Additionally, it can help manage blood pressure and has been studied for its effects in alleviating stress and anxiety.

An adult should get about 800 mg of calcium daily. This amount can vary depending on age, gender, and life situation, such as pregnancy or breastfeeding. Calcium is an important mineral that strengthens bones and teeth, and aids in the function of muscles and the nervous system. Adequate calcium intake is especially important during growth ages and for the elderly, whose calcium absorption decreases with age.

The recommended daily iodine intake for adults varies between 150 micrograms and 200 micrograms per day. For pregnant and breastfeeding women, the recommendation is higher, about 250 micrograms per day. Iodine intake is usually ensured by using iodized salt and consuming iodine-containing foods such as fish and dairy products.

The recommended daily intake of potassium for an adult is about 3,500–4,700 milligrams. This amount can vary depending on age, gender, and health condition. Adequate potassium intake is important as it helps maintain normal blood pressure, muscle function, and nervous system health. Potassium is mainly obtained from fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.

The timing of taking selenium can affect its absorption and benefits. Generally, it is best to take selenium with a meal as food improves its absorption. It is advisable to consume selenium as part of a balanced diet that includes a variety of vitamins and minerals. This helps ensure that you get the maximum benefit from selenium. Additionally, it is good to note that taking selenium in the evening can disturb sleep in some people, so the morning or early afternoon may be a better time to take it.

For adults, the recommended sodium intake is about 2300 milligrams per day, which is approximately one teaspoon of salt. However, excessive sodium intake can increase blood pressure and the risk of cardiovascular diseases. It is important to balance sodium intake and ensure that it does not exceed recommended limits.

The increase in potassium levels in the blood depends on several factors, such as diet, health condition, and any medications. Generally, correcting potassium levels through dietary changes can be seen in blood tests within a few days. If potassium intake has been insufficient for a long time, normalizing the level may take longer. It is important to regularly monitor potassium levels, especially if there are health issues that affect potassium balance.

The recommended daily intake of magnesium varies by gender and age. Typically, adult men are recommended to consume 400-420 mg and women 310-320 mg of magnesium per day. The needs may be higher for pregnant and breastfeeding women. It is important to note that magnesium needs can vary based on individual factors such as health condition and physical activity.

The time it takes for zinc to take effect can vary individually, but generally, its effects begin to be felt within a few days of regular use. For example, in alleviating symptoms of a cold, zinc can start working within 24 hours of starting use, if taken in sufficient amounts right at the onset of symptoms.

The recommended daily intake of zinc for adults varies between 7-11 milligrams depending on gender and age. For pregnant and breastfeeding women, the recommendation is slightly higher. Excessive intake of zinc can cause side effects, so daily intake should remain below 25 milligrams.

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Information Article

Calcium takes care of bones, muscles, and the nervous system

Calcium is an essential element for life. Adequate levels of calcium in the blood are essential for good bone strength, functioning muscles, and the nervous system. Sufficient calcium intake should be ensured from an early age and throughout life, as it is an effective way to prevent osteoporosis (brittle bones).

Magnesium
Information Article

Magnesium (Mg)

Those who are physically active should especially pay attention to the adequate intake of magnesium. Magnesium supports the well-being of muscles and bones.

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Information Article

Potassium

Potassium can be obtained from vegetables, fruits and dairy products.

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