Requirements & Toxicity

Human Nutrition 3(3+0)
Lesson 39 : Sodium

Requirements & Toxicity

Requirements
In adults,the daily intake of sodium in the form of sodium chloride (NaCl) will vary from 5 to 20 g depending on the climate. In temperate region, the NaCl intake may be from 5 to 8 g, while in tropical countries, the intake ranges from 10 to 20 g.

The minimum Recommended Dietary Allowance of sodium is :-

      • Adult - 500 mg.
      • Children - 400 mg.

Toxicity
Consumption of excessive amounts of NaCl causes edema in protein deficiency and increases blood pressure in patients of hypertension. A low salt diet is recommended in the treatment of this condition. Excess sweating that may occur due to exercise in a hot environment may cause sodium depletion. Salt intake needs to be increased temporarily to replenish the loss of sodium in sweat.

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Last modified: Tuesday, 14 February 2012, 7:06 AM