Sodium intake

[LindsayT 599]

So, I don't see my nutritionist until 3 months post-op, which is very interesting. Anyway, what is the recommended sodium limit? I know it can cause Water retention if too much is consumed and not that great for us. I read 2300mg is the notmal limit, but does that carry over for bariatric patients, too? That just seems like a lot. Thanks!

[BabySpoons 632]

My plan gives no specific recommendations for sodium intake. I read 2300mg or less to minimize the risk of kidney stones. Bariatric doctor advises. Says excess sodium causes the kidneys to excrete more Calcium into the urine.

[catwoman7 11,273]

we were never given a sodium limit. Like Babyspoons said, most doctors and dietitians recommend no more than 2300 mg of it a day, so that's what I try to stick to. And once you start eating more normally, 2300 will not seem like a lot, because there's so much of it "hidden" in foods. Depending on how you eat, it can be a challenge to stay under that! If you're the type who tends to eat processed foods or restaurant meals (and I realize this isn't NOW, but later on), you'll be up to 2300 in no time!

[kcuster83 1,505]

My plan or Dietician never once mentioned sodium and I had high BP pre-surgery. But, you eat SO minimal and it's basically all Protein especially this early post-op that your sodium intake is going to be super low regardless if you watch it or not. When you get further out, you could over due it especially with eating out. (If you do)

With that being said, NOW i have LOW blood pressure, to the point it drops so low and quick that I have passed out a few times. I have learned to notice the signs and can usually rebound it before it gets that bad. But, now I have to watch and try to increase my sodium levels to help keep my BP stable. To the point I have licked salt off of my hand because there is nothing salty around. It is not as bad as I may have just made it sound, once we figured it out it balanced out and rarely happens. Also, there are meds to raise my BP if needed but since we got it stable I don't need meds.

Sorry for my rant: My point is don't stress it, you aren't going to have a high enough sodium intake to retain Water like that.

Edited June 12, 2023 by kcuster83