The article discusses the importance of sodium in the diet while highlighting the common misconceptions about salt consumption among Americans. Many are unaware of their daily salt intake or the recommended levels, particularly for those with health issues. Experts emphasize that while sodium is essential for bodily functions, including muscle and nerve function, the recommended intake varies. Healthy adults need only about 500 mg of salt daily, but the American Heart Association advises a maximum of 2,300 mg, ideally 1,500 mg for overall health.
According to Dr. Columbus Batiste, the regional chief of cardiology with Kaiser Permanente, "We need the right amount of salt to provide our bodies with important electrolytes that can regulate things like muscle contractions, fluid balance and nerve transmission."
Dr. Rohan Khera, an assistant professor of cardiovascular medicine at Yale, mentions that salt is "needed for every single body cell, especially the more active heart and muscle tissues."
Dr. John Higgins from UTHealth Houston explains that salt plays a role in "sweating, normal cell function, metabolism, maintenance of body fluids, and keeping muscles and nerves working properly."
Dr. Nieca Goldberg emphasizes that limiting salt intake to 500 milligrams daily isn't realistic for many people, advising a maximum of 2,300 milligrams for healthy adults.
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