What is Sodium?
Sodium is an essential mineral and electrolyte that plays a critical role in maintaining fluid balance, nerve function, and muscle contractions. It helps regulate blood pressure and blood volume, and is necessary for the proper functioning of cells.
Benefits of Sodium
Fluid Balance: Maintains the balance of fluids in the body.
Nerve Function: Essential for the transmission of nerve impulses.
Muscle Contractions: Supports normal muscle function.
Blood Pressure Regulation: Helps control blood pressure and blood volume.
Foods High in Sodium
Here are some foods rich in Sodium along with their approximate Sodium content per 100 grams and the percentage of the daily recommended value (DRV) they provide. The DRV for Sodium is approximately 2,300 milligrams (mg) for most adults.
Top Sources of Sodium for Carnivores
Table Salt
Sodium content: 38,000 mg per 100g
% of Daily Need: 1,652%
Table salt is the most concentrated source of sodium.
Bacon
Sodium content: 1,717 mg per 100g
% of Daily Need: 75%
Bacon is a high-sodium processed meat.
Ham
Sodium content: 1,203 mg per 100g
% of Daily Need: 52%
Ham is another high-sodium processed meat.
Soy Sauce
Sodium content: 5,493 mg per 100g
% of Daily Need: 239%
Soy sauce is very high in sodium and commonly used as a condiment.
Cheddar Cheese
Sodium content: 621 mg per 100g
% of Daily Need: 27%
Cheddar cheese is a dairy product with a moderate amount of sodium.
Top Sources of Sodium for Vegans
Table Salt
Sodium content: 38,000 mg per 100g
% of Daily Need: 1,652%
Table salt is the most concentrated source of sodium.
Soy Sauce
Sodium content: 5,493 mg per 100g
% of Daily Need: 239%
Soy sauce is very high in sodium and commonly used as a condiment.
Olives (Canned)
Sodium content: 1,250 mg per 100g
% of Daily Need: 54%
Canned olives are high in sodium.
Pickles
Sodium content: 1,208 mg per 100g
% of Daily Need: 53%
Pickles are another high-sodium food.
Vegetable Juice (Canned)
Sodium content: 381 mg per 100g
% of Daily Need: 17%
Canned vegetable juice can be high in sodium.