How can I bring my sodium levels up?

December 31, 2025 •

3 min read

The human body requires a delicate balance of electrolytes for proper function, with a normal blood sodium level typically falling between 135 and 145 millimoles per liter (mmol/L). When sodium levels drop below this range, the condition is known as hyponatremia and requires careful, often urgent, attention to restore balance and prevent complications.

Quick Summary

This article explores the common causes and symptoms of low sodium levels, detailing safe methods, including dietary adjustments, fluid management, and medical guidance, to effectively increase sodium.

Key Points

Consult a Doctor First: Low sodium, or hyponatremia, can be serious and should always be addressed under a healthcare professional's guidance.
Adjust Fluid Intake: Reducing fluid intake is important to avoid dilution.
Increase Dietary Sodium: Incorporate more sodium-rich foods.
Use Electrolyte Drinks: Can help replenish both fluids and electrolytes, including sodium.
Watch for Severe Symptoms: Seek immediate medical attention if experiencing severe symptoms.
Be Mindful of Medications: Certain medications can contribute to low sodium levels.

Understanding Low Sodium (Hyponatremia)

Hyponatremia is a potentially dangerous electrolyte imbalance characterized by an abnormally low concentration of sodium in the blood. Sodium plays a vital role in maintaining fluid balance, nerve function, and muscle contractions. When sodium levels are low, water can move into cells, causing them to swell, which is particularly concerning in the brain. Effective treatment for hyponatremia depends on its underlying cause, severity, and duration, highlighting the importance of a proper medical diagnosis.

Causes of Low Sodium Levels

Various factors can contribute to low blood sodium. For more details on the causes, please visit {Link: Verywell Health https://www.verywellhealth.com/hyponatremia-low-sodium-2488674}.

Symptoms of Low Sodium

Symptoms of hyponatremia can vary significantly. Mild symptoms may include nausea, headache, fatigue, muscle cramps, and irritability. Severe symptoms require immediate medical care.

Increasing Sodium Through Dietary Changes

For mild hyponatremia, increasing dietary sodium can be helpful, but this should always be done in consultation with a doctor. Focus on incorporating foods that are naturally higher in sodium:

Dietary Sources of Sodium

Broths and soups.
Dairy products like cheese.
Cured and processed meats (consume in moderation).
Salted snacks.
Condiments such as soy sauce and some dressings.

Comparison of High vs. Low Sodium Food Options


Food Item	High-Sodium Version	Low-Sodium Alternative
Soup	Canned Chicken Noodle Soup	Homemade unsalted chicken broth
Tuna	Canned tuna in brine	Canned tuna in water, rinsed thoroughly
Nuts	Dry roasted, salted peanuts	Unsalted or lightly salted nuts
Cheese	Processed American cheese slices	Fresh mozzarella or Swiss cheese
Vegetables	Canned green beans with salt	Fresh or frozen green beans, no salt added
Condiments	Regular soy sauce or ketchup	Low-sodium soy sauce or ketchup
Baked Goods	Salted bread rolls	Unsalted bread or homemade rolls

Managing Fluid Intake

Controlling fluid intake is a key strategy for managing hyponatremia, especially when it's linked to excessive water consumption. Your doctor may recommend:

Fluid restriction to allow sodium levels to normalize.
Using electrolyte-rich drinks, like sports drinks or oral rehydration solutions, during periods of significant fluid loss.
Adding a small amount of salt to water, but only under medical supervision.

Medical Guidance and Treatment

Moderate to severe hyponatremia requires professional medical intervention. For more information on medical treatments, please visit {Link: Verywell Health https://www.verywellhealth.com/hyponatremia-low-sodium-2488674}.

When to Seek Immediate Medical Attention

Seek emergency medical care for anyone showing severe signs of hyponatremia. For more details, please visit {Link: Verywell Health https://www.verywellhealth.com/hyponatremia-low-sodium-2488674}.

Monitoring Your Sodium Levels

Regular monitoring of sodium levels is important. For more information, please visit {Link: Verywell Health https://www.verywellhealth.com/hyponatremia-low-sodium-2488674}.

Additional Considerations

While most dietary sodium comes from processed foods, focusing on less processed sources can be beneficial. Limiting caffeine and alcohol may also help.

Medical Treatments Explained

Beyond dietary and fluid management, medical treatments for hyponatremia include IV saline solutions and medications. Treating underlying diseases is crucial for a long-term solution. Working closely with a healthcare provider is essential.

Conclusion

Effectively managing low sodium levels requires a comprehensive approach. Whether through strategic food choices, electrolyte drinks, or medical intervention, prioritizing a safe return to balance is key. Consulting a healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment is paramount. Understanding the causes and symptoms empowers individuals to take proactive steps. For further information on hyponatremia symptoms and causes, consult the {Link: Mayo Clinic guide https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/hyponatremia/symptoms-causes/syc-20373711}.

Frequently Asked Questions

Foods high in sodium include broths and soups, cheeses, cured meats like ham and bacon, salted nuts and seeds, and condiments like soy sauce. Processed and canned foods are also typically high in sodium.

Yes, sports drinks and oral rehydration solutions contain a balanced mix of electrolytes, including sodium, and can be helpful for replenishing levels, especially after intense exercise or fluid loss due to vomiting or diarrhea.

The amount of salt to add should be determined by a doctor based on your specific needs. It's important to monitor consumption and avoid excessive intake, which can be detrimental.

Yes, it is possible. Low sodium levels often result from underlying medical conditions that affect fluid and electrolyte balance, not just a lack of salt in the diet. For example, excessive water intake can dilute sodium regardless of how much salt you consume.

Early symptoms can be mild and include nausea, headaches, fatigue, muscle cramps or weakness, and irritability.

In severe cases, doctors may administer intravenous (IV) saline solutions to restore sodium levels in a controlled manner. Treating the underlying medical cause is also a primary focus.

For mild cases, yes, through careful dietary adjustments and fluid management. However, for moderate to severe cases or when an underlying medical condition is present, professional medical treatment is often necessary to safely raise sodium levels.