From the Guidelines

Sodium is a crucial electrolyte that plays a significant role in maintaining blood pressure and overall cardiovascular health.

Sodium helps regulate the amount of water in the body and maintains proper blood pressure, with excessive intake leading to high blood pressure and increased risk of cardiovascular disease 1.
The relationship between sodium intake and blood pressure is direct and progressive, with reduced sodium intake resulting in lower blood pressure, particularly in individuals with hypertension, blacks, and those with chronic kidney disease 1.
Sodium reduction interventions can prevent hypertension, lower blood pressure, and reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease, with a recommended daily intake of less than 1500 mg/d 1.

Excessive sodium intake has been linked to various health problems, including kidney stones, asthma, osteoporosis, and gastric cancer 1.
Reducing sodium intake can have substantial health benefits, even with modest reductions, and can help prevent cardiovascular disease and stroke 1.

The American Heart Association recommends reducing sodium intake to less than 1500 mg/d, with a focus on choosing foods low in salt and limiting added salt to food 1.
A comprehensive approach to reducing sodium intake, including efforts from food manufacturers and restaurants, is necessary to achieve significant reductions in population sodium intake 1.

From the Research

Sodium is a crucial electrolyte that plays a significant role in maintaining homeostasis in the body 2
It is the major cation in the extracellular fluid, and its balance is essential for various bodily functions 2
Sodium helps regulate the amount of water in the body and maintains proper blood pressure 3
Imbalances of sodium can lead to various health issues, such as hyponatremia and hypernatremia, which can have severe consequences if left untreated 4

High sodium intake has been linked to an increased risk of hypertension and cardiovascular events 5
However, some studies suggest that low sodium intake may also be associated with a higher risk of all-cause mortality and heart failure-related events 5
The relationship between sodium intake and cardiovascular health is complex and requires further research to fully understand its effects 5

Sodium balance is closely tied to fluid homeostasis, and disruptions in sodium balance can lead to fluid imbalances and various diseases 3
The kidney plays a crucial role in regulating sodium balance, but recent discoveries suggest that peripheral mechanisms, such as sodium storage in tissues, also contribute to sodium homeostasis 3
Understanding the interplay between sodium balance, fluid homeostasis, and various bodily functions is essential for developing effective treatments for conditions characterized by sodium excess 3

Sodium is an essential electrolyte for athletes, as it helps regulate fluid balance and maintain proper hydration 6
Athletes may require increased sodium intake to replace losses due to sweat production during exercise, especially in hot weather 6
Replenishing sodium and fluids is crucial for rapid recovery and maintaining athletic performance 6