Patient/caregiver was educated on indications for 2-gram sodium diet as follows:
- Congestive heart failure: Individuals with history of congestive heart failure present with poorly regulated blood pressure, fluid retention, sharp weight gain, exacerbation of shortness of breath, and fatigue. As sodium has the tendency to hold and retain fluid in the body, regular or increased sodium intake in the diet can lead to increased fluid retention and further worsening of heart failure symptoms. Sodium intake is limited in these individuals, to reduce risk for further worsening of heart function.
- Poorly controlled diabetes: Poorly controlled blood sugars can contribute to diabetic nephropathy and compromised kidney function, which can result in poor sodium regulation by kidneys. This can lead to reduced sodium excretion in the urine, with consequent retention of sodium in the body. High sodium levels in the blood can result in poor blood pressure regulation, which can lead to further deterioration of kidney function. So, sodium intake is limited in poorly controlled diabetic individuals, to reduce risk for further damage to kidney function.
