The human body depends on a balance of sodium for homeostasis. Despite variations in food and water intake, the body seeks to balance sodium. Both high and low sodium diet levels influence electrolytes as well. Some of the causes of low sodium, or hyponatremia, are from a diet that consists of extremely low sodium levels, taking diuretics and excessive water intake.
Early Symptoms
The negative effects from a low-sodium diet might include nausea and malaise. Severe levels of low sodium cause headache, lethargy, restlessness and disorientation. Side effects from a low-sodium diet might also be responsible for low stomach acid production. MayoClinic.com reports additional symptoms, including spinal or joint degeneration, depression, fatigue and higher LDL and HDL cholesterol ratios.
Serious Effects
Negative effects from low-sodium diets, especially for athletes, are muscle cramps, disorientation, slurred speech, confusion and inappropriate behavior, according to information published by Rice University. When sodium levels fall rapidly, seizure, coma, permanent brain damage, respiratory arrest, brain stem herniation and death may occur.
Additional Concerns
People following a low-sodium diet might be at risk for low-sodium negative side effects, especially when they consume diuretic beverages. Pre-menopausal women might be at greatest risk for coma and death due to extremely low sodium intake, according to MayoClinic.com.
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