Question 1

What does Sodium measure?

Accepted Answer

Sodium is the dominant electrolyte in blood and the main determinant of blood volume. A low or high sodium value usually reflects water imbalance more than salt intake — it tells you how much water is in your body relative to sodium, not how much salt you ate.

Question 2

What is a normal Sodium range?

Accepted Answer

Normal: 135–145 mEq/L. Mild hyponatremia: 130–134 mEq/L. Moderate hyponatremia: 120–129 mEq/L. Severe hyponatremia: < 120 mEq/L. Hypernatremia: > 145 mEq/L.

Question 3

What affects Sodium levels?

Accepted Answer

SIADH (excess antidiuretic hormone — water retention) Heart failure, kidney disease, or liver cirrhosis Medications: SSRIs, certain diuretics, NSAIDs Excess water intake (rare — endurance athletes) Severe vomiting or diarrhea (causes high) Inadequate water intake or dehydration (causes high)

Question 4

What foods help with Sodium?

Accepted Answer

Salty broths and bone broth — Replenishes sodium without overwhelming the system. Olives, pickles, fermented foods — Naturally sodium-dense foods for mild low. Electrolyte drinks (low sugar) — Useful in athletes after heavy sweating. Whole-food cooking — Reducing processed food helps high sodium. Potassium-rich produce — Helps balance high-sodium states.

Question 5

When should I see a doctor about my Sodium?

Accepted Answer

Any sodium value outside the normal range warrants doctor input. Severe hyponatremia (< 120) can cause confusion and seizures and is a medical emergency. Don't try to correct sodium through diet alone — the underlying water-balance issue usually needs medical evaluation.

What Does Sodium Mean?

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What Sodium Measures

Normal Ranges

What Affects Your Sodium Level

Foods That May Help

Related Biomarkers

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