Sodium Levels

[BigDaveo11]

Haven't gotten much of a response in the nutrition section, maybe some of the "advanced" posters can shed some light on this great "debate"
Heard that it can only affect you if you are under 10% BF, I am taking in around 3200-3700mg a day, ways to reduce this, what is the effect/any info would be appreciated!

[determined4000]

Haven't gotten much of a response in the nutrition section, maybe some of the "advanced" posters can shed some light on this great "debate"
Heard that it can only affect you if you are under 10% BF, I am taking in around 3200-3700mg a day, ways to reduce this, what is the effect/any info would be appreciated!

what are your sources of sodium?
if you salt your food, try spices (garlic, onion, pepper paprika, cinnamon, Mrs. Dash) instead
Many products (ex. Cottage cheese, soups) offer low sodium versions
fresh/ frozen veggies instead of canned
Take the salt shaker off the table
Use vinegar for flavor

Remember you do need salts for muscle contraction and fluid functions
2000mg i probably more than enough though for someone active (the avg. person may need a little as 500mg for basic needs)

[RealMenDeadLift]

4-5g is average and has been shown to not cause any problems unless that person is genetically disadvantaged towards hypertension(Africans tend to have this issue). You are an athlete as well so you should be just fine and just drink more water if your concern is water retension as water carries the sodium.

[caa5000]

i don't really think it effects low BF% more... just that the bloat is more noticeable because there was more definition.

[Jharmes5]

There was an article someone posted awhile back showing how athletes actually don't get enough sodium, and depending on your BW/activity/H20 intake you can effectively use 3-4g of sodium a day, reps if someone can find it. It also explained that once you keep your water/sodium intake stabilized your water retention balances out.

[grapemaster]

more water, more cardio, try a sauna after workout.