How Does Sodium Affect Your Stomach?

Sodium is a substance that is found in nearly every living organism. In your body, sodium helps to maintain the balance of water and the pressure of your vascular system. In addition, sodium acts as an electrolyte, maintaining the rhythm of your heart and the functioning of your neurological system. As with any other substance, too much sodium can cause health problems including high blood pressure and impaired kidney function. Excess sodium intake can have an adverse effect on your stomach too. Check with your doctor before making dietary changes.

Increased Risk of Stomach Cancer

Nearly everyone gets plenty of sodium from foods, without the need for extra from the salt shaker. Excess amounts of sodium have been linked to increased incidence of stomach cancer. The National Institute of Health adds that the studies to examine this link have been performed on laboratory animals and not human subjects. In addition, it appears that the link isn't direct. Instead, excess sodium consumption may enhance the cancer-causing effect of other substances, such as nitrates. A 2003 study published in "Preventative Medicine" adds that consuming nutrients such as vitamin C and beta carotene may provide preventative benefits against sodium-mediated stomach cancer.

Increased Incidence of Gastric Ulcers

Excess consumption of sodium, according to the Linus Pauling Institute at Oregon State University, can erode the protective lining of your stomach. This can allow stomach acid to wear away at the lining, forming a gastric ulcer. Additionally, with less protection, your stomach is more vulnerable to the effects of the h. pylori bacteria that causes infectious ulcers. A diet that is high in sodium, they add, also tends to be lower in foods that can have a protective effect against inflammation and infection that can cause ulcers.

Gastrointestinal Problems

Excess amounts of sodium can cause the substance to accumulate to toxic levels in your body, a condition known as hypernatremia. This condition, according to Dr. Jennifer Best on the University of Washington website, is not common but can be fatal. Symptoms of hypernatremia include diarrhea, nausea and vomiting and individuals who are elderly or who have impaired sensation of thirst are at highest risk of toxic levels of sodium. Hypernatremia is a serious medical condition that requires the intervention of a healthcare professional. Treatment generally includes the administration of diuretics to remove excess sodium.

Considerations

Many processes in your body such as fluid balance, rely on adequate amounts of dietary sodium however sodium supplementation is rarely necessary. The Linus Pauling Institute at Oregon State University explains that sodium deficiency is considered rare and is not usually caused by consuming too little sodium. Most Americans, they add, consume more sodium than is recommended by the United States Food and Nutrition Board and too much sodium is associated with increased risk of serious illnesses. If you're trying to avoid sodium, consider using fresh or dried herbs and spices in your foods and put away the salt shaker.