Human Nutrition 3(3+0)

Lesson 39 : Sodium

Introduction

Sodium is a mineral that is present only in small quantities in most natural foods. The salt (NaCl) added in food processing increases the sodium content of cooked foods. Sodium is the predominant ion in extracellular fluid. It is an electrolyte that plays a crucial role in maintaining blood pressure. The adult human body contains about 100 g of sodium ion. About half of this quantity is found in extra-cellular fluid and the remaining half in the tissue cells and bone. It exists in the body in association with

• Chloride
• Bi carbonate
• Phosphate
• Lactate
• Propionate

The daily NaCl consumption is higher than the requirement and the excess NaCl consumed is excreted in urine. The total quantity of sodium excreted in urine, faeces and sweat is equal to the intake of sodium in normal individuals.