Tomato sauce and other canned tomato products Sauerkraut Sour pickles Jalapeno peppers Canned vegetables Instant mashed potatoes Salted fish Eggs Salted nuts, seeds, beans, and peas Tofu
Packaged cakes and cookies Greasy fast food, like pizza or burgers Heavily salted sausages or bacon Potato chips Microwave dinners
1 teaspoon (6 g) of table salt contains about 2300-2500 mg of sodium. Sprinkle your meals with a little salt and use it while you’re cooking. When using prepared sauces, marinades, canned foods, and other cooking ingredients, do not choose low-sodium or low-salt options. For example, use salted butter instead of unsalted butter.
Caffeinated drinks to avoid include coffee, tea, and energy drinks. Avoid bottled juices or sports drinks that promise an “increase in energy,” as they might also contain caffeine. Although it’s usually okay to consume alcohol occasionally, avoid it completely if you are suffering from low sodium levels and are having difficulty managing them.
Although water is crucial to your health, you shouldn’t overconsume it. In general, your thirst should guide you to what is an appropriate amount of fluid. If you’re not thirsty, you’re most likely consuming an adequate amount of fluid. [9] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source Also take note of your urine color. If your urine is pale yellow and you’re using the bathroom between 4-6 times daily, you’re most likely consuming adequate fluids daily. Reducing your water intake will help your body naturally raise its ratio of sodium to water. This may be easier and more effective than sodium replacement.
Even low calorie or diet sports drinks contain extra sodium and other helpful electrolytes. Sports drinks are also a great way to replenish temporarily reduced sodium levels when you’re dehydrated from throwing up or having diarrhea.
Commercially available ORS, such as Pedialyte or Ultima, can be bought over the counter. They may come in the form of ready-to-drink liquids or powders that are meant to be diluted in water. Follow the package directions for proper use. You can also make your own ORS at home by dissolving 2 tablespoons (25 g) of sugar and ¾ teaspoons (4. 25 g) of salt in 1 US quart (0. 95 L) of water. Mix in a little powdered drink mix (such as Crystal Light) or juice to improve the flavor. [12] X Research source Coconut water is also a good ORS substitute as it contains natural electrolytes to help manage fluid balance. [13] X Research source
Your doctor may prescribe medications to help manage your low sodium levels. Always follow their directions prior to making any dietary or other lifestyle changes. Ask your physician if there are changes you can make at home to help support a normal sodium level.
When you vomit, you expel most of the contents of your stomach, including water, sodium, and other electrolytes. [15] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source If you are vomiting excessively, such as during a stomach flu or other bacterial or viral illness, you may lose so much water and sodium that your sodium levels drop dangerously low. In addition to anti-nausea medications, consider natural ways to manage nausea and vomiting. Ginger tea, ginger soda, and more small, frequent meals can help reduce nausea and vomiting. Always talk to your doctor prior to taking any over-the-counter medications. They may also be able to prescribe anti-nausea medications if over-the-counter options don’t work for you.
Diarrhea causes your body to flush out a large amount of fluids. Your gut doesn’t have the time to absorb the needed minerals, including sodium. If your doctor recommends it, take anti-diarrheal medications to stop diarrhea and allow your body time to reestablish your sodium levels. In addition to medication, there are some natural ways to manage diarrhea. Try eating bland, low-fiber foods like bananas, white rice, and toast. Also avoid high-fiber foods and dairy, as these can make diarrhea worse. [17] X Trustworthy Source Cleveland Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source Consult with your doctor prior to taking any over-the-counter medications.
