Sodium

Sodium (chemical symbol Na) is an electrolyte. Sodium is used in many bodily processes, and has an important role in muscle and nerve function. The electrolytes sodium, potassium and magnesium have important roles in ion transportation.Sodium is lost from the body in sweat and urine. Sodium is often consumed in the in the form of salt (sodium chloride), and plays an important role in blood pressure.

See also

• Electrolyte

• Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS)

• Magnesium

• Potassium

Learn more

• Linus Pauling Institute Micronutrient Information Center - Sodium (Chloride)

postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS) - A form of orthostatic intolerance where the cardinal symptom is excessive tachycardia due to changing position (e.g. from lying down to sitting up).