Sodium in an electrolyte is essential for all living things, and is consumed more than any other mineral. It is estimated that Americans consume nearly four pounds of sodium each year. Sodium is also a positively charged ion found outside of our body’s cellular structures. The most abundant form of sodium in diet is salt, or sodium chloride (60 % salt, 40% chloride). Other forms of dietary sodium are added to a variety of liquids and foods. These sources include:
Because sodium is found in nearly all dietary sources, its bioavailability (amount of a mineral/nutrient capable for absorption in any given food) in the body is very high.
An excessive intake of sodium is more common than a deficiency. It is suggested that the average American “consumes from 2,300 to 6,900 milligrams of sodium daily.” (1) The body absorbs sodium in the small intestine and a large amount is deposited in the skeletal system. The remainder of consumed sodium is either found in tissues and cells; or is constantly circulating in the blood.
The amount of sodium needed for proper functioning of cellular processes may be in direct relation to the physical activity of a person or the overall health on an individual. This is, in part, due to the amount of fluids lost through sweating during exercise, and fluid loss in conditions associated with certain illnesses (i.e. vomiting, diarrhea).
Like the electrolyte potassium, sodium is critical in maintaining proper fluid balance in our bodies. Its main function is in the regulation and allowance of potassium ions in intracellular structures. This process allows us to utilize the majority of fluids contained in our bodies. Sodium controls the balance of fluids across and through all tissue and cell structures.
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