Definition Sodium is a mineral that is needed by the body for proper functioning. Food Sources Sodium occurs naturally in most foods. Sodium is also added to various food products. They may be more familiar as ingredients such as Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, onion salt, garlic salt, and bouillon cubes. Processed meats, such as bacon, sausage, and ham, and canned soups and vegetables are all examples of foods that contain added sodium.
Fast foods are generally very high in sodium.
Functions Sodium is a mineral that is required by the body to regulate blood pressure and blood volume. Sodium also assists in the proper functioning of muscles and nerves. Recommendations Dietary sodium is measured in milligrams. One teaspoon of table salt contains 2,300 milligrams of sodium. The National Research Council of the National Academy of Sciences recommends an approximate daily range of 1,100 to 3,300 milligrams of sodium for adults.