Sodium Intake Calculator
Calculate your recommended daily sodium ceiling by age and health status. Average intake is ~50% above the limit.
What is Sodium Intake?
Sodium directly affects blood pressure and fluid balance. The American Heart Association recommends ≤ 2300 mg/day (about 1 teaspoon of salt) for healthy adults, with an ideal of 1500 mg for most adults — and a strict 1500 mg for those with hypertension, kidney disease or diabetes.
How is it calculated?
Calculator returns 1500 mg for adolescents under 14 and for adults with hypertension or chronic kidney disease, and 2300 mg as a general adult ceiling. Most processed and restaurant foods exceed your daily target in a single meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is sea salt healthier?
- No — sodium content is essentially the same.
- How do I cut sodium?
- Cook at home, rinse canned foods, season with herbs and citrus.
- Are athletes different?
- Heavy sweat-losses may increase needs but should be guided by a sports dietitian.