Sodium in food and its use in medicine

Sodium is an integral component of our diet and plays an important role in the functioning of the body.

In this article, we will take a closer look at the properties of sodium, its presence in the diet, the content of table salt in food products, as well as the problems associated with sodium deficiency and excess in the body. We will also learn how sodium is used in medicine and what are the recommendations for its consumption.

Properties of sodium

Sodium is a chemical element with the symbol Na and atomic number 11. It is an alkali metal that is necessary for the proper functioning of the body. Sodium is a key ion in the bodies of all animals and plays an important role in maintaining water and electrolyte balance as well as nerve and muscle functions.

It is also an important component of table salt, i.e. sodium hydrochloride (NaCl), which gives our dishes flavor and provides certain preservative and antibacterial functions.

Sodium in the diet

Sodium is widely present in our diet, mainly in the form of table salt, which is added to many dishes and food products. Table salt consumption is often questioned due to its potentially negative effects on health, especially in the context of increased blood pressure and the risk of cardiovascular disease.

According to the recommendations of health organizations, an adult should not consume more than 5 grams of table salt a day, which is equivalent to about 2 grams of sodium. Unfortunately, many people exceed this amount due to the presence of salt in convenience foods, fast food and other processed foods.

Table salt content in food products

Table salt is commonly used as a preservative and seasoning, so it can be found in many foods. Examples of foods high in salt include processed meats, cold cuts, powdered soups, snacks, and certain types of bread and cheese. Too much consumption of such foods can lead to excess sodium intake.

Sodium deficiency and excess in the body

Sodium deficiency in the body is rare because it is commonly found in the diet. However, excessive consumption of table salt can lead to excess sodium, which in turn can increase blood pressure, increase the risk of cardiovascular disease and lead to health problems such as edema.

Regular blood tests allow you to monitor the level of sodium in the blood and prevent both deficiencies and excesses of this element.

The use of sodium in medicine

Sodium has many uses in medicine. One of the most important uses is the treatment of dehydration and electrolyte imbalances that may occur as a result of diarrhea, vomiting, excessive sweating or kidney disease. Sodium is also used to treat certain heart conditions, especially those related to low blood pressure.

In sports medicine, sodium is often used to replenish electrolytes in athletes and physically active people, especially in extreme conditions such as heat or intense exercise.

Your suggestions

To take care of your health and maintain water and electrolyte balance, it is worth following the recommendations regarding the consumption of table salt. Limiting your intake of processed foods and convenience foods can help control the amount of sodium you consume.

It is also worth regularly checking the level of sodium in the blood, especially in the case of people at risk of deficiency or excess of this element.

Recommended articles

If you want to learn more about a healthy lifestyle, electrolyte balance or recommendations for table salt consumption, we recommend reading the following articles:

“How to Control Salt in Your Diet and Improve Your Heart Health”

“The role of electrolytes in the human body”

“Sodium and blood pressure – how to avoid excess”

Remember that a healthy diet and taking care of the appropriate amount of sodium consumed can contribute to maintaining good health and reducing the risk of many diseases.