Sodium: can infants consume too much?

Abstract

Purpose

Although small levels of sodium may be beneficial during infancy, high intakes may be detrimental to infant health. The aim of this paper is to give an overview on how sodium can influence infant health status in the short and long term.

Design/methodology/approach

The most up‐to‐date and pertinent studies within the literature have been included and summated in this paper.

Findings

The findings from this review indicate that high sodium intakes during infancy can have short‐ and long‐term health implications. Predominant sources of sodium include: cow's milk, formula diluted with high‐sodium bottled water and home‐prepared foods. Dietary advice needs to be imparted to parents with regard to “safe sodium” intakes for infants and how these can be achieved.

Originality/value

This paper gives a concise, up‐to‐date overview evaluating sodium intake and infant health.

Citation

Derbyshire, E. and Davies, G.J. (2007), "Sodium: can infants consume too much?", Nutrition & Food Science, Vol. 37 No. 6, pp. 400-405. https://doi.org/10.1108/00346650710838054