Sodium

Sodium 

BACKGROUND ON SODIUM 

Sodium is an essential mineral in our diet. It is commonly found in the form of sodium chloride (salt). Salt has no smell and it dissolves easily in water and gives water a “salty” taste at levels greater than 180 milligrams per liter.

WHY TEST FOR SODIUM? 

Sodium and chloride are elements that are very common in nature and in the human diet. They occur naturally in groundwater, typically at low concentration. However, sources such as road salt, both its storage and application to roads in winter, can be a significant source to groundwater. Other potential sources include industrial waste, sewage, fertilizers, water softener discharge, and living in coastal areas where sea water can influence the quality of groundwater. 

HEALTH CONCERNS

There have been many studies on the potential effect of dietary sodium on blood pressure. Epidemiology studies show that in some cases lowering sodium intake to the official American Heart Association goal of 1500 mg per day can have a beneficial effect on blood pressure. 

SOURCES OF SODIUM

Sodium and chloride are elements that are very common in nature and in the human diet. They occur naturally in groundwater, typically at low concentration. However, sources such as road salt, both its storage and application to roads in winter, can be a significant source to groundwater. Other potential
sources include industrial waste, sewage, fertilizers, water softener discharge, and living in coastal areas where sea water can influence the quality of groundwater.


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