What is a low sodium diet or sodium restricted diet? The 2015 Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommend limiting sodium to less than 2,300 milligrams, or 1 teaspoon a day (U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and U.S. Department of Agriculture. 2015–2020., 2015). However, a low sodium diet consists of an intake of less than 2,000 milligrams of sodium a day, which is a little less than a teaspoon (U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and U.S. Department of Agriculture. 2015–2020., 2015). According to Nutritional Foundations & Clinical Applications a Nursing Approach, the average American takes in about 6,000 milligrams of sodium a day, almost three times as much as is recommended (Nierenberg, C, 2014).
It is not necessary to cut out all sodium because a small amount is essential for regulating the amount of fluid in the body and also helps with functioning of the brain, nervous system and muscles. Sodium is found in almost every kind of food or beverage; processed foods are among the highest. A low sodium diet does not mean just removing the salt shaker from the table. Although, that is a good start, most sodium comes from processed foods, such as canned or frozen foods that are not labeled as low sodium. The second highest source comes from natural sources, such as meat or potatoes.
Certain conditions warrant the need for a low sodium diet, reasons include improvement of high blood pressure, which decreases the risk of heart attack, stroke, congestive heart failure, and also supports kidney function. Lowering sodium intake can decrease edema, or swelling, which is often associated with heart, kidney, and liver disease. Also, clients with diabetes are at greater risk for high blood pressure, therefore being on a low sodium diet can further reduce that risk and the complications previously mentioned (Tidy, D. C., n.d.).
The USDA requires food labels for every food product besides fresh fruits and vegetables. The a...