Description
"Sodium" is an essential mineral and electrolyte naturally found in salt, seawater, and various foods. Fluid balance, nerve transmission, and muscle function require its presence in the body. Electrolyte interactions help regulate pH stability and enzymatic activity while maintaining equilibrium with potassium. Sodium also influences nutrient transport and cellular hydration. Common dietary sources include table salt, seafood, and vegetables. Its importance in hydration and cellular activity has made it a fundamental part of nutrition for generations.
Functions in the Body
Category
Deficiency Symptoms
Sodium deficiency can cause symptoms such as lack of energy, nausea, vomiting, headache, drowsiness, fatigue, confusion, restlessness, irritability, muscle weakness, spasms, cramps, seizures, and even coma in severe cases.
Synergists & Antagonists
Sodium works synergistically with vitamin B6, vitamin D, calcium, cobalt, copper, iron, potassium, magnesium, phosphorus, and selenium to support electrolyte balance and physiological functions. However, excess sodium acts as an antagonist, disrupting the balance of potassium, calcium, and magnesium.
Sodium
Warnings
Sodium should be used with caution in individuals with heart disease, kidney disease, or alcoholism. It interacts with medications like videx, lithium, sodium phosphates, antihypertensive drugs, and corticosteroids. Excess sodium intake can lead to high blood pressure, fluid retention, and electrolyte imbalances.
Food Sources
Sodium can be found in nutritional yeast, table salt, sea salt, beets, cottage cheese, spinach, seaweed, rye, chard, tomatoes, lettuce, celery, olives, salad dressing, processed cheese, salami, pretzels, and sauces.
Time Frame
Sodium can be consumed anytime, but it is most effective when taken as part of an electrolyte formula to support fluid and electrolyte balance.
Depleted By
Sodium levels may be depleted by hyperuricemia medications, diuretics, blood pressure medications, antibiotics, antifungal medications, analgesics, anti-inflammatory drugs, NSAIDs, and opioids.