Sodium Minerals Information - Facts, benefits, deficiency disease of Sodium

Sodium and potassium were discovered together and both found to be essential for normal growth. Hight intakes of Sodium will result in a depletion of potassium. Sodium functions with chloride and bicarbonate to maintain a balance of positive and negative ions (electrically charged particles) in our body fluids and tissues. A low sodium intake leads to a lowering of the blood pressure and brings about diuresis, ridding the body of the excess extracellular fluid.

Diets high in Sodium usually account for many instances of high blood pressure. There is no offcial dietary daily allowance, buta daily single gram of Sodium chloride has been suggested for each kilogram of water drunk.

Sodium aids in keeping calcium and other minerals in teh blood soluble.

Sodium Benefits and Uses

• aid in preventing heat prostration or sun stroke
• Sodium is an electrolyte that plays a crucial role in maintaining blood pressure.
• Along with potassium and chloride, it regulates fluids and acid-base balance in the body.
• It is also involved in nerve transmission and muscle contraction, including the heartbeat.
• Sodium may be beneficial for the treatment of diarrhea, leg cramps, dehydration, and fever.
• help your nerves and mscles function properly

Sodium food Sources

Salt, shellfish, carrots, beets, artichokes, dried beef, brains, kidney, bacon.

Sodium Deficiency Disease

Sodium deficiency is a condition in which we fail to receive an adequate supply of sodium. The most frequently observed sodium deficiency occurs when excessive heat causes heavy perspiration, thus reducing body water and sodium to the extent that gross dehydration affects normal activity patterns.