Recommended Sodium Intake Per Day for Men

Excessive sodium intake can lead to certain diseases.

Excessive sodium intake can lead to certain diseases.

The terms sodium and salt are typically used interchangeably. Table salt is sodium combined with chloride. The highest concentration of sodium in the body can be found in the skeleton. Digestive juices also contain sufficient amounts. Despite the salty taste, sweat contains a limited amount of sodium compared to the overall concentration in the body. Sodium is necessary for several functions in the body. However, excessive consumption of sodium can lead to various disease states.


Sodium functions as an electrolyte in the body. With 95 percent located outside of your cells, sodium helps balance fluid in the body. Sodium helps your cell membranes maintain a healthy structure and allows certain molecules to be transported in and out of the cells. Also, sodium has been shown to aid neuromuscular function and acid-base balance.


The adequate intake of sodium for healthy, young men is 1.5 grams per day. This does not include individuals who require larger amounts, such as competitive athletes or those exposed to extreme heat. Older men require 1.2 to 1.3 grams per day due to decreased energy intakes. Individuals who consume greater than 2.3 grams of sodium every day have an increased likelihood of developing certain diseases. Therefore, 2.3 grams per day is the daily maximum.

High Sodium Levels

Excessive sodium consumption has a wide range of health implications that include high blood pressure, heart disease and kidney disease. Also, high intake can negatively affect your bones by increasing the amount of calcium excreted by the body. Individuals diagnosed with high blood pressure, diabetes or chronic kidney disease should be particularly mindful of their sodium consumption.

The American Diet

The typical American diet consists of four to five grams of sodium, which is well above the tolerable upper limit of 2.3 grams. Try decreasing your sodium intake by eating fewer processed foods and restaurant meals. Consume fresh fruits and vegetables, low-fat dairy, low-sodium nuts and lean proteins, which have a limited amount of sodium. Finally, replace table salt with herbs and spices to add flavor.

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