Sodium

Question 1

What are the functions of sodium?

Answer 1

• Sodium works with potassium to help the fluids in and outside the cells of the body are balanced (in equilibrium).
• Helps nerves and muscles to work effectively.

Question 2

Name 4 sources of sodium.

Answer 2

Takeaways eg. Indian, Chinese or Pizza, table salt (sodium chloride), salty snacks eg. crisps and peanuts, processed foods eg. most ready meals, meat products eg. bacon (especially smoked) and ham, breakfast cereals, and stock cubes

Question 3

How much salt is recommended per day?

Answer 3

6g

Question 4

What is a excess in sodium linked to?

Answer 4

High blood pressure (hypertension) and this increases the risk of strokes and coronary heart disease.

Question 5

Why is it rare in the UK to have a deficiency in sodium?

Answer 5

Because it is found in such a wide range of ready-made foods and there is a high consumption of these foods in the diet of many people.

Question 6

How are hot climates and a deficiency in sodium linked?

Answer 6

If an individual isn’t used to being in a hot climate and isn’t used to spending long periods in the heat, sodium can be lost in sweat. Loss of water and sodium in this way may cause dehydration.

Question 7

How are sodium and V and D linked?

Answer 7

Vomiting and diarrhoea can cause sodium to be lost and therefore dehydration could occur.

Question 8

What are the symptoms of dehydration?

Answer 8

• dry mouth and lips
• headache
• thirst
• darker urine (should be pale yellow)
• lightheaded