It has been implicated as a causative factor in high blood pressure.  This occurs because the body retains water in the blood vessels to dilute excess sodium, leading to greater blood volume and high blood pressure.  Sodium is also required, with potassium and chloride, to maintain pH balance in the body.  Electrolyte loss, including the loss of sodium, leads to sunstroke and heat exhaustion. Sodium ions are needed to transfer electrochemical impulses along nerves and in muscles.  Therefore sodium balance is important for maintaining heart function.  Those who use diuretics and fibromyalgia sufferers may benefit from moderate amounts of sodium in the diet.

Sodium can be supplemented in the diet by the use of seaweeds.  Seaweeds, such as kelp, dulse and nori, contain sodium and potassium along with many other trace minerals.  They can be found in tablet form or as dried sheets or flakes that can be directly added to foods.  Sea salt is a better source of sodium than iodized table salt because it contains a balance of other minerals.  Celtic sea salt is a variation of sea salt that is reported to have high levels of potassium and other minerals, but is relatively low in sodium.  Some claim that it can actually decrease blood pressure.  This type of salt is a good alternative for those that want the salty flavour but do not want to add much sodium to their diet.

Taking diuretics can deplete sodium and an estimated 20% of the elderly may be deficient in sodium due to diuretic use. Sodium, chloride and potassium are in balance with each other.  A high level of one of these minerals means that the other minerals are low and vice versa.  Those with cardiovascular, kidney or liver disease should carefully monitor their sodium level.