Recommended daily intake of sodium
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Recommended Daily Sodium Intake: Global Guidelines and Evidence
Sodium Intake Recommendations for Adults
Most health organizations recommend that adults limit their sodium intake to less than 2.3 grams (2,300 mg) per day, which is about 5.8 grams of salt, to reduce the risk of high blood pressure and cardiovascular disease 2567. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) and Nordic Nutrition Recommendations suggest that 2.0 grams per day is a safe and adequate intake for adults, including pregnant and lactating women 25. The U.S. National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine (NASEM) also set a chronic disease risk reduction (CDRR) intake at 2,300 mg per day .
Evidence and Controversy: Optimal Sodium Intake Range
While guidelines often recommend keeping sodium intake below 2.0–2.3 grams per day, some research suggests that the optimal range for most adults may be higher. Several large observational studies and reviews indicate that the lowest risk of cardiovascular disease and death is seen in people consuming a moderate amount of sodium, typically between 3 and 5 grams per day 1346+2 MORE. These studies also show that both very high (>5 grams/day) and very low (<3 grams/day) sodium intakes may be linked to increased health risks 1348+1 MORE.
Blood Pressure and Cardiovascular Health
There is strong evidence that reducing sodium intake lowers blood pressure in a dose-dependent manner, with benefits seen even at intakes below 2 grams per day . However, while short-term clinical trials show blood pressure reduction with low sodium diets, there is a lack of long-term randomized controlled trials proving that very low sodium intake reduces cardiovascular events compared to moderate intake 1345+3 MORE. Most of the evidence for current guidelines comes from blood pressure studies rather than direct evidence of reduced heart attacks or strokes 1345+3 MORE.
Population Sodium Intake and Adherence
Globally, average sodium intake is much higher than recommended, typically ranging from 3 to 6 grams per day 189. In the United States and Europe, most adults consume well above the recommended limits, and adherence to guidelines is low, with less than 25% of adults meeting the targets 79. Sodium intake is generally higher in men and younger adults, and lower in older adults and those with chronic diseases .
Special Considerations for Children
Recommended sodium intake for children is lower and is adjusted for age and energy needs. For example, EFSA recommends 1.1 grams per day for children aged 1–3 years, 1.3 grams for ages 4–6, 1.7 grams for ages 7–10, and 2.0 grams for ages 11–17 25.
Conclusion
Most guidelines recommend that adults consume less than 2.0–2.3 grams of sodium per day to reduce blood pressure and cardiovascular risk. However, some evidence suggests that a moderate intake of 3–5 grams per day may be optimal for most people, with risks increasing at both higher and lower intakes. There is a need for more long-term studies to clarify the best target. Meanwhile, reducing sodium intake—especially from processed foods—remains a practical step for improving public health, particularly for those with high blood pressure or at risk of cardiovascular disease 1234+6 MORE.
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