Sodium

Sodium is an essential mineral and contributes to the right

fluid balance in the body and maintains good muscle activity.

  

The Directorate has pointed out that Icelanders on average

use about 10 g of sodium a day and they indicate how far

in excess of the desired amount it is, and that it should be less than 5 g.

  

Sodium overuse can cause a variety of

health problems such as high blood pressure, increased likelihood

of osteoporosis and kidney stones. Overuse also increases

the likelihood of more serious heart problems such as enlargement

of the heart muscle and heart attack.

  

Sodium binds water and if too much sodium is consumed

it appears as edema and swelling for example in the face.