Sodium
By Sol Hong & Sruthi Boppuri
Role of Nutrient
Sodium is an electrolyte meaning that it controls the fluid levels in the body. It also regulates and controls blood pressure and blood volume. Sodium facilitates muscle contractions and cell transmission.
Consequences
Insufficient amount of Sodium:
- Fainting
- Nausea
- Headaches
- Dizziness
Excessive Amount of Sodium:
- High blood pressure
- Increased risk of heart disease
- Increased risk of strokes
- A serious build up of fluid in people with congestive heart failure, cirrhosis, or kidney disease
- Can cause hypertension
Major Sources of Sodium
- Salt, Baking soda/powder
- Sauces and salad dressings
- Meat/Fish
- Cheese
- Fast Food
Bibliography
http://www.eatingwell.com/nutrition_health/nutrient_library/sodium_chloride
http://www.cdc.gov/salt/food.htm
http://www.medicinenet.com/electrolytes/article.htm
http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/002415.htm
http://www.fda.gov/Food/ResourcesForYou/Consumers/ucm315393.htm
http://www.theodoregray.com/periodictable/Samples/011.9/index.s15.html
http://www.healthaliciousness.com/articles/what-foods-high-sodium.php
http://www.kevinmd.com/blog/2013/07/salt-diet-high-blood-pressure-evidence.html