The National Research Council of the National Academy of Sciences recommends an approximate daily range of 1,100 to 3,300 milligrams of Sodium for adults. Note: a teaspoon of table salt equals 2,325 mg Sodium.

The American Heart Association recommends that for every 1,000 calories of food consumed, the Sodium intake should be 1,000 milligrams and should not exceed the 3,000 milligram limit.

The average intake in the United States is between 4,000 and 5,000 milligrams of Sodium per day.
Live a healthier, more balanced life by practicing these Sodium Safeguards…quick, easy tips for reducing Sodium intake:

• Substitute herbs and spices for salt
• Offer salted snacks (e.g. pretzels, crackers, nuts) in smaller portions
• Serve smaller amounts of condiments (e.g. mustard, catsup, relish, salad dressing)

Sodium deficiencies = Serious consequences.

Sodium is readily absorbed in the small intestine and is normally stored in muscle and cartilage tissue. The hormone aldosterone controls the balance of Sodium, water and other fluids in the body which regulate blood pressure and promote muscle contraction.
Sodium deficiency is a condition in which the body fails to receive an adequate supply of Sodium. The most frequently observed Sodium deficiency occurs when excessive heat causes heavy perspiration, thus reducing body water and Sodium to the extent that gross dehydration affects normal activity.

Too little Sodium in the diet also disturbs the tissue-water and acid-base balance that is important to good nutritional status.

Symptoms of Sodium deficiency may include feelings of weakness, apathy and nausea as well as cramps in the muscles of the extremities. Taking additional salt in tablet form is a preventive measure and persons may use increased amounts of table salt on their food to replace Sodium lost during dehydration and sweating.

Signs Of Sodium Deficiencies:

• Coma
• Vomiting
• Confusion
• Muscle weakness
• Seizure
• Swollen ankles/legs
• Appetite loss

And now, there is continuing evidence to support that excess dietary salt is a major force contributing to high blood pressure in some individuals, although other factors may also be responsible. Americans eat more salt and other forms of Sodium than they need. Often, when people with high blood pressure cut back on salt, their blood pressure falls. Cutting back on salt also prevents blood pressure from rising. Some people are more affected by Sodium than others. Since there's really no practical way to predict exactly who will be affected by Sodium, it makes sense for everyone to limit intake of salt to help prevent high blood pressure.