Sodium - Do we need it in our diet?

MissCheese

Ok I mostly cook from scratch and never add salt to my diet, I really notice the salt when I buy something ready prepared as my thirst goes through the roof.

So my question is does the body actually need salt?

RMuske

The body does require some salt but generally speaking people get more than enough from the food they eat even without adding any such as table salt. If you work out on a regular basis than you want to make sure that you are intaking some salt because your body needs more than a person who does not.

cmriverside

Yes, it helps keep your electrolytes balanced. But there is enough sodium in the foods you eat without adding any more. In restaurants, salt and oil are used for flavor.

kateroot

Yes, the body absolutely needs sodium to function. You can actually die if you don't get enough sodium, which is obviously extreme and very rare.. but still. However, you probably don't "need" added salt in your diet, most people get enough from the foods they eat.