Too little sodium

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msarro
msarro Posts: 2,748 Member
in Food and Nutrition
Hey everyone.
This is just a simple question - I know that most studies have shown that the average person eats far more sodium than they should; and likewise they eat FAR too little potassium. Given that my family has a history of hypertension, i go out of my way to eat as little sodium as possible, while still keeping a respectable amount of potassium. However there are some days when I don't break 1000mg of sodium. Is this bad? If it happens regularly, what can the ramifications be?

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  • Mindful_Trent
    Mindful_Trent Posts: 3,954 Member
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    Minimums are typically given between 500mg and 1500 mg per day. I've seen more that are closer to the 500mg in my reading... here are a few sources:

    1500: http://www.ext.colostate.edu/pubs/foodnut/09354.html
    500: http://nuinfo-proto4.northwestern.edu/nutrition/factsheets/sodium.html
    500: http://articles.cnn.com/2002-06-05/health/ask.sodium_1_sodium-intake-sodium-levels-stretch-marks?_s=PM:HEALTH

    Some of the symptoms of sodium deficiency (hyponatremia) include:
    Nausea and vomiting
    Headache
    Confusion
    Lethargy
    Fatigue
    Appetite loss
    Restlessness and irritability
    Muscle weakness, spasms or cramps
    Seizures
    Decreased consciousness or coma

    If you've been regularly eating very low sodium levels and notice any of these, you should probably consider upping your sodium and seeing your doctor if it is serious.
  • knapowell
    knapowell Posts: 230 Member
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    Found this:

    "While some serious medical conditions cause sodium problems and need medical condition, the average person or athlete can take steps to ensure adequate sodium intake. The minimum requirement of sodium for successful cell function is about 500 mg/day. Most people get much more than this due to regular consumption of processed foods. Excess sodium can lead to high blood pressure; therefore, the recommendation is to consume less than 2,300 mg/day. Athletes and those participating in vigorous physical activity should pay special attention to their sodium intake due to the loss of sodium through sweating."

    Read more: http://www.livestrong.com/article/4733-need-low-sodium-symptoms/#ixzz1AUQ31o1V
  • funfor5
    funfor5 Posts: 41 Member
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    I actually rarely go over 1000mg by choice! I seem to have a sodium intolerance and if I do - my legs and ankles & feet will swell up.....started happening after a trip to Mexico about 5 yrs ago. If I monitor it I feel fantastic with only 1000mg or less! I agree about the potassium though - make sure you are getting enough of that! If you feel good, I'm not a doctor, I would say don't worry about it.
  • msarro
    msarro Posts: 2,748 Member
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    Well, luckily I tend to average around 1000-1100mg per day so I'm still above the minimum. I think I'll be ok. Much appreciated folks!
  • anewattitude
    anewattitude Posts: 483 Member
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    Hi There,

    If you have a family history of hypertension it is wise for you to limit your sodium intake. According to the book called " The Dash Diet for Hypertension" they suggest you keep your sodium intake to around 1500-2000mgs a day. If you could bump up your intake to 1500mg then you would be in the range the book suiggests to be in.

    I actually have hypertension and find it difficult to limit my sodium because I love my chips! Fortunately there are many low sodium varieties of snacks and foods that are becoming more available.

    If you are worried about negative consequences of too low sodium you mayt want to consult your doctor or a nurtionist otherwise it is a good idea to watch your sodium levels.

    best of luck

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