Sodium 24 Hour

Sodium is the primary electrolyte regulating fluid balance, blood pressure, and nerve signaling. The kidneys excrete sodium in proportion to intake, making a 24 hour urine sodium test one of the most accurate ways to assess true daily salt consumption. This measurement is especially relevant for kidney stone prevention and cardiovascular health.

High urinary sodium reflects high salt intake and has a direct effect on calcium handling in the kidneys. As sodium excretion rises, calcium excretion increases as well, raising the risk of calcium based kidney stones and potentially contributing to bone calcium loss over time. Low urinary sodium suggests lower intake or increased retention. Because dietary recall often underestimates salt intake, the 24 hour urine sodium test provides actionable insight that blood sodium levels cannot.