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MINERALS OVERVIEW
Sodium is necessary for maintaining proper water balance and blood pH. It is also needed for stomach, nerve, and muscle function. Although sodium deficiency is rare - most people have adequate (if not excessive) levels of sodium in their bodies - it can occur. This condition is most likely to affect people who take diuretics for high blood pressure, especially if they simultaneously adhere to low-sodium diets.
Some experts estimate that as many as 20% of elderly people who take diuretics may be deficient in sodium. In some cases of disorders such as fibromyalgia, studies have shown that moderate amounts of sodium may be needed as well (natural sea salt is recommended).
Symptoms of sodium deficiency can include abdominal cramps, anorexia, confusion, dehydration, depression, dizziness, fatigue, flatulence, hallucinations, headache, heart palpitations, an impaired sense of taste, lethargy, low blood pressure, memory impairment, muscular weakness, nausea and vomiting, poor coordination, recurrent infections, seizures, and weight loss.
Excessive sodium intake can result in edema, high blood pressure, potassium deficiency, and liver and kidney disease.
SOURCES
Virtually all foods contain some sodium. Food sources of high in sodium are canned asparagus, beef, bread, canned corn, cheese, eggs, frankfurters, ham, milk, peanut butter, canned salmon, sardines, sauerkraut, Swiss chard, tomato juice, tuna.
COMMENTS
A proper balance of potassium and sodium is necessary for good health. Since most people consume too much sodium, they typically need more potassium as well. An imbalance of sodium and potassium can lead to heart disease.
DOSAGE INFORMATION
Intake of sodium should not be greater than 10 percent of potassium intake. The adult human body contains an estimated 120 g of sodium. One-third of total body sodium is found in the skeletal structure. The rest is found in extracellular fluids, nerve and muscle tissue.
RDA Requirements:
- For adults 1000-3300 mg
- For children 11+ 1000-3300 mg
- For children 7-10 600-1800 mg
- For children 4-6 450-1350 mg
- For children 1-3 325-975 mg
- For infants 0.5-1 115-350 mg
SUPPLEMENTAL USESDehydration: Sodium Chloride can be used to treat dehydration due to excessive salt loss or salt deficiency. It can also help reduce decreases in blood volumes in fasting patients.
Excessive Perspiration: Sodium Chloride supplementation can help alleviate excessive perspiration that occurs regularly.
Low Weight or Premature Infants: Sodium supplements can reduce excessive urinary excretion often seen in low weight or premature infants.
Sodium Deficiency: Sodium can benefit such symptoms as weakness, muscle Cramps, and aches.
Excessive intake of sodium can lead to increased blood pressure and increased incidence of Migraine Headaches. 35-40 g daily of sodium Chloride can cause edema. High salt intake has also been linked to increased incidence of stomach cancer and cerebrovascular disease. Doses that exceed several grams per kilogram of body weight per day can be deadly, due to its adverse effect on bodily functions, including heart muscle function.
Salt intake should be restricted in people with edema, Hypertension, congestive heart failure, and chronic renal failure.
INTERACTIONS
There are no known drug interactions or contraindications for sodium.
Electrolyte Replacement Supplements
GatorLYTES, Gastrolyte
Supplement Overview
- Situations may occur in sport where focused replacement of electrolytes is warranted:
- Rapid rehydration following moderate-large fluid deficits incurred during exercise or other dehydrating activities (e.g. "heavy physical activity in the hot sun, or long, intense labor during birth, or illness with high fever").
- Replacement of large sodium losses during ultra-endurance activities.
- Replacement of large electrolyte losses during exercise in certain individuals with high rates of sweat loss and/or high sweat content of electrolytes.
- Sports drinks (10-25 mmol/L sodium and 3-5 mmol/L potassium) may not address the replacement of large electrolyte losses during and after exercise.
- In the case of post-exercise rehydration, there is sound evidence that the replacement of electrolyte losses, particularly sodium, must occur before fluid balance is fully restored. In the absence of sodium replacement, replacement of fluid by the dehydrated athlete will lower plasma sodium levels and osmolality, causing a decrease in thirst and increase in urine output despite a partially restored plasma volume. Although sodium can be replaced via the consumption of high-sodium foods (e.g. bread, breakfast cereal, or other processed savory foods) or salt (sodium chloride) added to meals, it is often useful to ensure that electrolyte replacement is achieved via specialized electrolyte-replacement supplements.
- At present, the value of sodium/electrolyte replacement during exercise in reducing problems associated with large electrolyte losses from sweat is equivocal and highly debated. In particular, the use of sodium supplements to reduce the risk of hyponatraemia (low sodium concentrations) during ultra-endurance events is unclear.
- Some experts feel that this potentially fatal problem occurs, in susceptible people, as a result of large sodium losses during prolonged exercise. It is difficult to replace the sodium lost during prolonged periods of sweating especially if the athlete replaces fluid losses with low sodium drinks such as water and soft drinks, and meets fuel needs with low sodium choices such as sports gels and bars, fruit and jelly confectionery. In order to meet sodium losses in sweat, guidelines for sodium intake during exercise range from 0.5-0.7 g per Liter of fluid (21-30 mmol/L) [American College of Sports Medicine 1996 position statement on fluid replacement in sport, regarding exercise greater than one hour] to 0.25-0.5 g per hour for people susceptible to the risk of hyponatraemia during ultra-endurance events. Note that the typical intake of a sports drink (e.g. 700 mL per hour of Gatorade) would provide an hourly sodium replacement of 0.29 g.
- In contrast, other experts argue that hyponatraemia is caused principally by "water intoxication" or over-hydration, where the athlete consumes fluid at a rate that is higher than actual sweat losses. This may occur in ultra-endurance events, particularly for the slower competitor (low sweat loss due to low exercise intensity) and/or competitor who is overzealous regarding fluid replacement. According to this theory, sodium replacement during exercise will not address the major risk factor for hyponatraemia.
- Oral Rehydration Solutions are recommended in the treatment or prevention of dehydration associated with diarrhoea and gastro-enteritis.
MoonDragon's Health & Wellness: Dehydration & Homemade Rehydration Fluids
Supplement Profile
- Oral Rehydration Solutions are manufactured according to World Health Organization guidelines for the treatment and prevention of dehydration during diarrhea and gastroenteritis. In these situations, effective delivery of oral fluid replacement is best achieved by a solution that is low in carbohydrate (2% or 2 g/100 mL) and provides electrolytes in concentrations of 50-80 mmol/L sodium and 10-30 mmol/L potassium. It should be noted that the priority for athletes suffering from gastrointestinal upset is rehydration, rather than refueling. Oral Rehydration Solutions are available in a number of pharmaceutical brands, typically as individual sachets of powder to be mixed with 200-250 ml of water. Gastrolyte is available in a range of flavors.
- GatorLYTES is a recently developed product available to sports medicine/nutrition practitioners through the Gatorade company, which can be added to a sports drink to increase its electrolyte content. According to the manufacturer's instructions, the contents of one sachet should be added to 600 mL of sports drink.
Nutritional Analysis Gatorade Gastrolyte Gatorade Gastrolyte Gatorade + GatorLYTES (1 sachet) Per 100 ml Serve Per 100 ml Serve Per 600 ml Serve Per 600 ml Serve Per 600 ml Serve Energy (kJ)
(cal)110
2633
8660
156198
48660
156Protein (g) 0 0 0 0 0 Fat (g) 0 0 0 0 0 Carbohydrate
Total (g)
Sucrose (g)
Glucose (g)
6.3
4.5
1.8
2
2
38
27
11
12
12
38
27
11Sodium (mg) 41
(18 mmol/L)*138
(60 mmol/L)*246
(10 mmol)828
(36 mmol)1016
(44 mmol)Potassium (mg) 11.7
(3 mmol/L)*78
(20 mmol/L)*72
(2 mmol)468
(12 mmol)462
(12 mmol)
* Note that these values represent concentrations in a Liter rather than absolute amounts per 100 mL.
Situations for Use in Sport
- Rapid rehydration following moderate-large fluid deficits incurred during exercise or other dehydrating activities (e.g. "heavy physical activity in the hot sun, or long, intense labor during birth, or illness with high fever").
Following exercise (or "weigh in") the athlete with a moderate-large fluid deficit should follow a rehydration plan tailored to meet their estimated fluid loss. Typically, over the next hour(s) the athlete should consume a volume of fluid equal to 1.5 times their estimated fluid deficit. When the rehydration period prior to an exercise bout is less than 60-120 min (e.g. weigh-in prior to a race or competition bout, recovery between repeated training or competition session), gastrointestinal discomfort may prevent the athlete from achieving this targeted fluid intake. In such a situation, that athlete should consume the greatest volume that can be comfortably tolerated. Fluid intake should be accompanied by electrolyte replacement, particularly sodium, to optimize the retention of fluid and re-equilibration of body fluid. Sodium replacement can be achieved via the consumption of salt-containing foods eaten at recovery snacks and meals (e.g. bread, breakfast cereal, or other processed savory foods) or by adding salt (sodium chloride) to meals and snacks. In some cases, particularly where the athlete has a restricted food intake or is limited to eating sports foods and snacks with a low sodium content, it may be valuable to consume sodium-containing fluids to provide a guaranteed sodium intake. This choice may include Gastrolyte, or GatorLYTES added to Gatorade or other beverages. It should be noted that a higher sodium level reduces the palatability of most drinks, and many athletes may prefer to slightly dilute these drinks rather than follow the manufacturer's instructions (e.g. add one sachet of GatorLYTES to 100 mL of sports drink). If the palatability of the drink is reduced the athlete should be reminded to meet a fluid intake target, rather than let their fluid consumption be driven by voluntary intake and "enjoyment" of the drink. It should also be noted that the carbohydrate content of Gastrolyte is low, and will not contribute substantially to the athlete's refueling goals.
- Replacement of large sodium losses during ultra-endurance activities. Replacement of large electrolyte losses during exercise in certain individuals with high rates of sweat loss and/or high sweat content of electrolytes.
Guidance for sodium supplementation during exercise should be made on an individual basis, and under the supervision of a sports health care provider or dietitian.
- Prevention and treatment of dehydration during diarrhea and gastroenteritis.
Guidance for use of Gastrolyte and GatorLYTES during illness should be provided by a sports health care provider.
Concerns Associated with Supplement Use
- There is no consensus regarding the value of sodium replacement during exercise.
- In some situations, salt supplementation during exercise may lead to gastrointestinal problems or cause further impairment of fluid balance.
- Increasing the sodium content of a drink generally reduces the drink palatability and may interfere with the voluntary consumption of fluid.
- The Dietary Guidelines promote a reduction in sodium/salt intake by the community, due to the link between salt intake and hypertension in susceptible people. Electrolyte replacement during and after sport may be considered as a special situation for a special sub-group of the population, however, general guidelines for healthy eating should not be overlooked.
SODIUM SUPPLEMENTS & PRODUCTS
SEA SALT GENERAL INFORMATION
Pure unrefined Sea Salt contains essential amounts of sodium chloride, and sodium chloride is one of the 12 daily essential minerals. Our bodies cannot live without salt (sodium chloride). Salt in the body makes hydrochloric acid, which is one of the essential digestive fluids. There is not enough natural salt in our foods, so we must supplement our diet, but the salt we eat on our foods is not sufficient, since during the refining process, the sodium chloride evaporates and sodium hydroxate is left. Sodium hydroxate irritates the system and does not satisfy the body's hunger and need for sodium chloride. Natural salt (sodium chloride) dissolves in water and can therefore dissolve in your body. Refined salt does not dissolve in water or your body. When foreign substances, such as refined salt collect in your organs and tissues, it will eventually cause malfunctioning of essential body processes: heart disease, arthritis, hardening of the body tissues and arteries, calcium deposits in the joints, etc. Natural organic salt (saline) will not cause calcification in your body.
SEA SALT USES & SCIENTIFIC EVIDENCE
Pure solar dried all natural Sea Salt may be used to enhance food flavor, while achieving various therapeutic health benefits. Solar dried Sea Salt baths are used to help release lactic acid which builds up during physical activity causing muscle ache. Natural Sea Salt may also be used in an evaporator to relieve sinus problems. Pure un-refined sea salt that is dried from the ocean by the sun offers the best health benefits.
SEA SALT DOSAGE INFORMATION
Sea Salt is generally regarded as organic, and that can be true; however, many Sea Salts have been refined so it is important to read labels before purchasing to ensure you are buying organic salt.
SEA SALT SAFETY & INTERACTION INFORMATION
There are no known safety issues or interactions associated with Sea Salt when taken in the recommended doses.
SEA SALT SUPPLEMENTS
Electrolyte Stamina Tablets, Trace Mineral Research, 90 Tabs
Electrolyte Stamina Tablets are a high performance energy nutritional supplement, developed specifically for athletes or other people who experience a lot of fluid loss.
Gourmet Spray Salt Seasoning, Mineralized Sea Salt, Trace Minerals, 8 fl. oz.
Gourmet Spray Salt Seasoning is a Body-Balanced, Full Spectrum, Liquid Ionic Mineral & Trace Mineral Nutritional Supplement naturally concentrated sea water from Utah's inland sea.
Electrolyte Stamina Power Pak, Raspberry, Trace Minerals, 32 Packs, 0.23 oz. per pack
Play harder, endure longer and feel replenished with Electrolyte Stamina Raspberry Power Pak - the right way to revitalize and recharge your body's natural energy source.
40,000 Volts Electrolyte Concentrate, Trace Minerals, 8 fl. oz.
40,000 Volts Electrolyte Concentrate is a Dietary Supplement, the Only Liquid Electrolyte Made with Concentrace® Ionic.
Inland Sea Water, Pure, Kosher, Trace Minerals, 16 fl. oz.
Body-Balanced, Full Spectrum, Liquid Ionic Mineral & Trace Mineral Nutritional Supplement. A naturally concentrated sea water product from Utah's inland sea.
Sea Salt, Coarse Cut, 100% Natural, Solar Dried, 26 oz.
This all natural sun dried New Zealand Sea Salt has been crushed in your choice of fine or coarse granules and adds excellent flavoring to any fine meal.
Sea Salt, Fine Cut, 100% Organic, Solar Dried, 16 oz.
Our Organic Sea Salt comes in a re sealable pouch bag and offers a 100% Organic flavor to fine food with the benefits of Ocean Minerals.
Therapeutic Bath Crystals, 1 lb.
Relieve your sore muscles with this natural blend of sea salt crystals and essential oils.
Stabilized Oxygen OxyDrops, Liquid Electrolytes, Sodium Chloride Solution, 4 fl. oz.
WaterOz stabilized oxygen is the highest quality, strongest and most stable of all the liquid electrolytes of oxygen available on the market.
Nutribiotic Nasal Spray, With Grapefruit Seed Extract, 1 fl. oz.
Nasal Spray is useful to aiding many conditions. During allergy season it helps to re-moisturize the nasal passages and clean them of dust, dirt, dander and other allergens. The nasal spray is also useful during a bout of sinusitis, or inflammation and infection of the sinus passages.
FOR MORE PRODUCTS & INFORMATION CLICK ON THESE LINKS:
HerbalRemedies: Sea Salt Supplements & Products
HerbalRemedies: Sea Salt / Sodium Chloride Information
Mountain Rose Herbs: Bulk Culinary and Sea Salt
Offered here is a line of some of the worlds most exotic, alluring and flavorful salts created with the artisan in mind. Salts have numerous benefits for both food and cosmetic applications and are naturally rich in beneficial minerals. They may be incorporated seamlessly into most cosmetic preparations and are a culinary staple for the most discerning chef who cannot compromise the rich flavor of fine dishes. The numerous sea salts we offer are 100% natural, renewable, and ethically harvested from all over the world.
For a full list of available products from Mountain Rose Herbs, click on banner below:
HELPFUL PRODUCTS & FURTHER EDUCATION
Prescription for Nutritional Healing: The A-To-Z Guide To Supplements
-- by Phyllis A. Balch, James F. Balch - 2nd Edition
Prescription for Nutritional Healing: The A-To-Z Guide To Supplements
-- by Phyllis A. Balch, James F. Balch - 4th Edition
Prescription for Herbal Healing: The A-To-Z Reference To Common Disorders
-- by Phyllis A. Balch
The Complete Guide to Natural Healing
This is only a small sample of educational materials and products available through Amazon.com. Use the search box provided below to search for a particular item.
HERBS, OILS, & SUPPLIES
Mountain Rose Bulk Herbs
Mountain Rose Aromatherapy Oils
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