Sodium's benefits include helping the body sustain fluid balance and kidney function, but too much sodium is bad for your circulatory system, and contributes to heart and kidney disease. The recommended daily level of sodium the average adult should get in his diet is 2,300 mg, and decreases to 1,500 mg daily for those over 51. Nevertheless, in the U.S. sodium consumption exceeds recommended levels -- approximately 3,400 mg daily for the average adult, reports MayoClinic.com. Estimating your sodium intake can help determine if you are consuming at sodium at a healthy level.
Step 1
Keep a food journal to track the sodium content of the food you eat. Include all food and beverages, and measure any table salt that you add to food. A teaspoon of salt contains 2,325 mg of sodium.
Step 2
Record the amount of sodium for each food item and drink that you consume. Refer to nutrition labels, restaurant menus or online websites to find information about each item's sodium content; or, use the U.S. Department of Agriculture National Nutrient Database.
Step 3
Add up the number of milligrams of sodium you consume each day. Keep a running tally of your sodium intake for as long as desired.
Step 4
Compare your daily intake of sodium to the guidelines to determine if your sodium consumption is below or above the recommended level.
Step 5
Speak with your healthcare provider about any dietary changes you want to make to your diet concerning your sodium intake.
Things You'll Need
- Journal
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