Mineral Sodium

There are 16 essential minerals that the body needs and they are broken into two types: macro and trace. Minerals are inorganic substances (meaning they contain no carbon) that are required for normal cell function, growth and development. Macrominerals are needed by the body in large doses. Trace minerals are only needed by the body in small quantities.

SODIUM            

  • Macromineral

Best plant food sources

  • Fruits: bananas, apples

  • Vegetables: cabbage, carrots, green leafy vegetables, pickles, sea vegetables, turnips

  • Grains: white bread

  • Legumes: miso, soy sauce

  • Other: baking powder, baking soda, table salt

Function in the body

  • Needed for proper fluid balance; works with potassium to regulate fluid and acid/alkali balance

  • Helps with nerve function

  • Aids muscle contraction

  • Supports digestion

  • Anti-aging

Health benefits

  • Prevents sun stroke or heat exhaustion

  • Prevents muscle cramps

Symptoms of deficiency

  • Diarrhea

  • Vomiting

  • Headache

  • Weakness

  • Low blood pressure

  • Confusion/dizziness

Excess intake

  • Hypertension

  • Cardiovascular disease

Other notes

  • Those with kidney disease should restrict their intake of sodium