ALABAMA A&M and AUBURN UNIVERSITIES

For more information,
contact Donna Reynolds, Extension Assistant Editor

SODIUM IS IMPORTANT FOR REGULATING BODY FLUID BALANCE

AUBURN, MARCH 30---Sodium is important for regulating the body's fluid balance, maintaining proper blood pressure and volume, and sending nerve signals.

"We need a certain amount of sodium each day to replace normal everyday losses," says Dr. Evelyn Crayton, Extension foods and nutrition specialist with the Alabama Cooperative Extension System. Sodium balance is tightly controlled by the body. The kidneys normally excrete sodium in excess of needs to maintain the body's sodium balance.

During strenuous physical activity, the body can lose too much sodium if heavy perspiration occurs, says Crayton. It's easy to replace sodium, other minerals and water by having a snack or meal along with a beverage. To replenish body fluids, drink adequate amounts of water or a non-caffeinated beverage.

Most people associate excess dietary sodium with high blood pressure. High blood pressure is one factor that increases the chance of heart disease and strokes, but the exact causes of high blood pressure and how to prevent it are not fully understood.

Scientists have found the development of high blood pressure can involve several factors. For certain people who have high blood pressure, high intakes of salt are linked to their condition. These people are described as "salt sensitive." Scientists are working to develop a reliable medical tests to identify people who are "salt sensitive."