What are the benefits and harms of sodium for humans

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A person needs sodium. This useful element ensures the work of muscles, the transmission of nerve impulses and many other things. However, no more than 1 mg is required for normal life. useful product. At the same time, children need an even smaller amount — 500 mg. Although nutritionists grandkulinar.ru they believe that sometimes this norm can be exceeded, but regular consumption of more than 6 mg of Na is dangerous for health. In the worst case, an excess of sodium can even lead to death.

6 grams is a lot or a little

Sodium is in excess in table salt and, to a large extent, it is Na that gives it a pleasant taste. Six grams is approximately one tablespoon of table salt.

However, sodium is not only found in it. Popular products with a high sodium content include:

  • Soy sauce. In our country, the product became widespread after the popularization of Asian cuisine. Soy sauce gives a specific taste. In most cases, quite a bit of product is enough.
  • Cheese. We are talking only about real cheese, not a cheese product. If it is cheese, it contains even more sodium, and therefore the daily portion is reduced even more.
  • Pickled cabbage. Not the most popular product among Russians. At the same time, this is a cheap way to compensate for the lack of sodium in the body.
  • Chanterelles. Mushrooms, which can be collected in the forest completely free or bought inexpensively in the store, also make up for the lack of sodium.

The above list is far from fully listing suitable products. However, even this small list is enough to understand: sodium is present in many products. Sometimes it is important to limit the diet to avoid problems.

Excess sodium

An excess of sodium in the body can cause problems with blood pressure, brain swelling, and the development of cardiovascular diseases. The increased danger extends to those people who already have problems with the kidneys or heart muscle.





Some nutritionists remind that the deficiency of one trace element can cause the deficiency of others. For example, an excess of sodium can lead to a deficiency of magnesium or calcium. Excess weight is also identified as one of the common problems associated with an excess of sodium. Reducing sodium promotes weight loss. To do this, it is recommended to try one of the corresponding diets.