Sodium

Sodium is an essential dietary mineral and electrolyte. It is one of the main components of the fluids inside our bodies and plays a vital role, helping carry nutrients to cells. Sodium is necessary for regulation of blood and body fluids, transmission of nerve impulses, heart activity, and certain metabolic functions.

How much sodium should be consumed per day?

Sodium consumption should be a balance, not too little but not too much. The World Health Organization recommends not to consume more than 2,000 mg/day.

How do I know how much sodium is in your foods or beverages?

The amount of sodium in our foods and beverages is listed in the Nutrition Facts Panel. You can also see sodium amounts and comparisons with other food and beverages in the Sodium Comparison chart on this page or by using the Sodium filter on the Product Finder page.

Are there times when consuming sodium is helpful?

If you engage in strenuous physical activity or live in a hot climate and spend lots of time outside, your body can quickly deplete its supply of sodium and other electrolytes. This can hinder both the absorption of water and the production of sweat - natural processes that are needed to keep your body from overheating. You can help avoid this situation by consuming sports drinks like Gatorade that contain sodium and other electrolytes.

Learn More

Sodium Comparison

Foods
Beverages

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Product Name
 
Sodium
(mg / %DV per serving)
 
mg
% DV
Serving Size Sodium
per serving (mg)
Chicken noodle soup, canned 1 cup 1106
Tomato juice 1 cup 883
Cold cuts - Ham 2 slices 730
Hot dog 1 642
Cold cuts - Turkey Breast 2 slices 540
Fast food hamburger (plain) 1 474
Cottage Cheese 110g 458
Pretzels 1 oz 385
Cold cuts - Salami 55g 332
Tomato sauce, canned 60g 314
Ketchup 2 Tbsp 312
American Cheese 1 slice 300
Raisin Bran Cereal 1 cup 274
Dill pickle 1 263
Mustard 2 Tbsp 258
English Muffin 1 248
Bagel 1 245
Peanuts, salted 30g 244
Corn flakes 1 cup 202
Wheat bread 1 slice 148
Tuna, canned 55g 192
Potato chips 1 oz 149
Milk 2% 1 cup 145
Butter 1 tbsp 82

Source:
American Heart Association and USDA National Nutrient Database for Standard Reference