Skip navigation

Official websites use .gov
A .gov website belongs to an official government organization in the United States.

Secure .gov websites use HTTPS
A lock ( ) or https:// means you’ve safely connected to the .gov website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites.

URL of this page: //medlineplus.gov/ency/imagepages/19703.htm

Sodium content

Sodium content

Overview

Sodium is an element that the body needs to function properly to regulate blood pressure and blood volume. For individuals who are sodium-sensitive, an increased intake of sodium may contribute to high blood pressure. When watching the intake of sodium, read labels carefully to determine the total sodium content, be sure to note the serving size and number of servings per container. Canned, packaged, and frozen foods can be particularly high in sodium.

Review Date 6/22/2022

Updated by: Stefania Manetti, RD/N, CDCES, RYT200, My Vita Sana LLC - Nourish and heal through food, San Jose, CA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David C. Dugdale, MD, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.