Dietary sodium
Dietary Sodium is a crucial mineral that is essential for the human body to function properly. It is primarily used for nerve and muscle function, as well as maintaining a balance of fluids in the body. However, excessive intake of dietary sodium can lead to various health issues such as hypertension, heart disease, and stroke.
Sources of Dietary Sodium[edit | edit source]
Dietary sodium is primarily obtained from the food we eat. It is naturally present in a variety of foods such as meat, milk, and eggs. However, the majority of dietary sodium comes from processed and restaurant foods. Some common sources of dietary sodium include:
- Salt: This is the most common source of dietary sodium. It is often added to food during cooking or at the table.
- Processed Foods: These include canned soups, frozen dinners, and processed meats. These foods often contain high levels of added sodium.
- Restaurant Foods: Many restaurant meals are high in sodium. This is especially true for fast food and chain restaurants.
Health Effects of Dietary Sodium[edit | edit source]
While sodium is necessary for the body, excessive intake can lead to a number of health problems. These include:
- Hypertension: High sodium intake can increase blood pressure, leading to hypertension. This can increase the risk of heart disease and stroke.
- Heart Disease: Excessive sodium intake can contribute to the development of heart disease by increasing blood pressure and causing damage to the heart.
- Stroke: High sodium intake can increase the risk of stroke by contributing to high blood pressure and damage to blood vessels.
Recommendations for Dietary Sodium Intake[edit | edit source]
The Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommend that adults consume less than 2,300 milligrams of sodium per day. This is equivalent to about 1 teaspoon of salt. However, certain groups of people should aim for a lower intake. These include:
- People with hypertension or prehypertension
- People over the age of 50
- African Americans
- People with diabetes, kidney disease, or heart disease
See Also[edit | edit source]
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