Salt Intake Determined by Physiologic Needs

A new analysis suggests salt intake is regulated within a narrow “normal” range defined by the body’s physiologic needs. Consumption ranges between 2600 mg and 4800 mg of sodium per day, higher than currently recommended. The American Journal of Hypertension study reviewed 50 years of publications reporting 24-hour urinary sodium, including 50,060 individuals from 45 countries. Authors noted the recent Institute of Medicine report suggests that although sodium intake has been linked with cardiovascular disease and all-cause mortality, experts worry that low intake may adversely affect certain risk factors. A recent ASN Kidney News article examined this report and its findings.