Sodium Flashcards Preview

Home Economics: 01.7 - Minerals > Sodium > Flashcards

Flashcards in Sodium Deck (9)
Loading flashcards...
1
Q

List the sources of sodium

5

A
Table salt 
Cheese 
Snack foods such as crisps
White bread 
Cured meats such as bacon
2
Q

What is the RDA for sodium?

A

2.4g of sodium or 6g of salt

3
Q

List the functions of sodium

4

A

Regulates blood pressure

Supports healthy nerve activity

Aids normal muscle contraction

Controls water balance in the body

4
Q

List the effects of a sodium deficiency

A

Hypotension

Cognitive impairment

Muscles fail to relax

5
Q

A lack of sodium results in hypotension, describe this deficiency

A

Hypotension or low blood pressure reduces the amount of oxygen getting to organs as blood flow is slowed

6
Q

A lack of sodium results in cognitive impairment, describe this deficiency

A

Delayed nerve impulses leading to cognitive impairment such as memory loss or disorientation

7
Q

A lack of sodium results in muscles failing to relax, describe this deficiency

A

Muscles fail to relax after contraction which can cause muscular spasms muscle cramps and convulsions

8
Q

What happens if one takes too much sodium?

A

This increases blood pressure levels and can increase the risk of heart attacks or strokes

9
Q

How should one reduce their sodium intake?

4

A

Avoid high-salt snack foods

Buy reduced salt products

Don’t add salt when cooking

Read nutritional labels carefully when shopping as food may contain hidden sodium such as monosodium glutamate