Fluid & Electrolyte Q 87

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A diet containing the minimum daily sodium requirement for an adult would be:

  

    A. A no-salt diet

    B. A diet including 2 gm sodium

    C. A diet including 4 gm sodium

    D. A 1500 calorie weight-loss diet

    

    

Correct Answer: B. A diet including 2 gm sodium

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The minimum sodium requirement for adults is 2 gm daily. Most adults consume more than this because sodium is abundant in almost all foods. Sodium is an essential nutrient and is needed by the body in relatively small amounts(provided that substantial sweating does not occur) to maintain a balance of body fluids and keep muscles and nerves running smoothly.

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Option A: Americans eat on average about 3,400 mg of sodium per day. However, the Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommends limiting sodium intake to less than 2,300 mg per day—that’s equal to about 1 teaspoon of salt.

Option C: The American Heart Association recommends no more than 2,300 milligrams (mg) a day and moving toward an ideal limit of no more than 1,500 mg per day for most adults. Because the average American eats so much excess sodium, even cutting back by 1,000 milligrams a day can significantly improve blood pressure and heart health.

Option D: On average, Americans eat more than 3,400 milligrams of sodium each day — much more than the American Heart Association and other health organizations recommend.

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