According to 2006 information from the American College of Cardiology, stroke is the number three killer in the United States. A leading risk factor for stroke is s blockage of the carotid arteries, located on the right and left side of the neck. A blocked carotid artery can cause TIAs, or mini strokes. If a piece of plaque breaks off, it can also move to the brain, causing a full blown stroke. The progression of carotid artery disease is hard to predict and lifestyle changes are necessary as soon as any issues are found.
Sodium
Sodium is a required element the body needs for proper function. The body is incredibly sensitive to changes in sodium balance since it helps regulate muscle and nerve function. Sodium is also necessary to help regulate blood pressure. It is a naturally-occurring element found in most foods and drinking water, making it easy for the body to obtain. Additionally, sodium is added to many different processed foods to help with taste and as a preservative. Sodium is found in various forms such as, MSG, or monosodium glutamate, sodium nitrate, sodium saccharin, baking soda and sodium benzoate. Many ingredients from soy sauce to Worcestershire sauce have added sodium.
Sodium and Disease
Sodium balance is vital to functions in the body; however, too much or too little can lead to health problems. Excess or unused sodium leaves the body through sweat and urine. Sweating during a sport tournament or heavy working out can lead to too much sodium loss, which also leads to dehydration, weakness and mental confusion, according to the Mineral Information Institute. Too much sodium can lead to an increase in thirst and higher blood pressure. For those with other health problems, such as heart, liver or kidney disease, increased sodium can also lead to serious fluid level build up.
Daily Recommendations
The National Institutes of Health recommends that healthy individuals limit sodium to 2300 mg or less a day. This is equal to just 1 tsp. of table salt. Those with issues such as high blood pressure or heart, liver or kidney disease need to follow a reduced sodium diet of 1500 mg or less a day. Based on individual health needs, a doctor may recommend even lower sodium levels. Even without a reduced sodium diet, it helps to read labels and look for added salt. Items such as soda and ice cream even contain small amounts of sodium, which can add up throughout the day.
Diet Recommendations
Those with carotid artery disease should limit sodium intake to less than 1500 mg a day. The National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute states that treatment for carotid artery disease involves lifestyle and diet changes to reduce blood pressure and cholesterol levels to help reduce stroke risk and ideally, slow the progression of carotid artery disease. The diet should emphasize fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains and fish. Eating fresh food sources helps eliminate added sodium and keeps saturated fats to a minimum.
