He has written for Foreign Policy,The Guardian, Foreign Affairs, Politico and a host of other publications. The Interpreter Joins RFE/RL. We are proud to announce that, starting January 1, 2016, The Interpreter will be a special project of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty.
1 Sodium plays a large role in fluid balance, with different variations of sodium determining the shift of water by osmosis from one area of the body to another.  Along with chloride and bicarbonate, sodium is important for the proper regulation of the acid-base balance of the body.
The human body needs some sodium to work right. Sodium helps control your blood pressure, blood volume, and the balance of other fluids in your body. It also helps with your nerves and muscles. But your body needs only 180 mg to 500 mg a day. That's less than the amount in 1/4 teaspoon of salt.