Tag: Sodium ions

The average American consumes over 3,400mg of sodium daily, far exceeding the recommended limit. This statistic highlights our deep-seated connection with the substance, but many don't know the surprising answer to the question: what part of salt are we eating? The answer lies in the fundamental science of its chemical makeup.

As one of the body's most crucial electrolytes, sodium ions play a pivotal role in countless physiological processes. They are essential for transmitting nerve signals, controlling muscle contractions, and maintaining the delicate balance of fluids and blood pressure.

Over 70% of dietary sodium in most developed nations comes from packaged and processed foods. Despite this prevalence, confusion exists around consuming sodium ions, largely due to a misunderstanding of chemistry, particularly the difference between highly reactive elemental sodium and the stable ionic form found in food. The answer to whether sodium ions are safe to eat lies in this fundamental distinction.