According to the American Liver Foundation, approximately 25 million Americans, or one out of 10, develop liver, bile duct, or gallbladder diseases. Liver disease often begins as inflammation of the liver, that may ultimately lead to chronic inflammation and irreversible scarring, also known as cirrhosis . The liver is remarkably resilient, able to compensate for a significant amount of damage by regenerating itself, but with time and chronic inflammation its function declines. Excess sodium and fluids increases the blood volume and can worsen these symptoms.
Sodium is a naturally occuring mineral found in small amounts in most foods and abundantly in salt.
Sodium attracts water. In persons who are already experiencing problems with swelling, as occurs in advanced liver disease, excess sodium in the diet can increase fluid retention, and discomfort. Most people, especially those in Westernized societies, have daily sodium intakes well above this level due to the prevalence of salt and processed foods that are high in sodium. Excess sodium not only contributes to excess fluid retention but may also increase the risk for chronic diseases such as high blood pressure. For this reason it is generally recommended that sodium intake be limited to approximately 2,400 mg per day.