Sodium

Question 1

List the sources of sodium

5

Answer 1

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

Question 2

What is the RDA for sodium?

Answer 2

2.4g of sodium or 6g of salt

Question 3

List the functions of sodium

4

Answer 3

Regulates blood pressure

Supports healthy nerve activity

Aids normal muscle contraction

Controls water balance in the body

Question 4

List the effects of a sodium deficiency

Answer 4

Hypotension

Cognitive impairment

Muscles fail to relax

Question 5

A lack of sodium results in hypotension, describe this deficiency

Answer 5

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

Question 6

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

Answer 6

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

Question 7

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

Answer 7

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

Question 8

What happens if one takes too much sodium?

Answer 8

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

Question 9

How should one reduce their sodium intake?

4

Answer 9

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