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24-Hour Sodium Intake Assessment

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test measures the total amount of sodium consumed over a 24-hour period, helping evaluate dietary sodium intake and its potential impact on health.

Quick summary

["Understanding your sodium intake can help manage conditions like high blood pressure or heart disease."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
9092-8
Short code
Sodium intake 24h
Synonyms
Sodium intake 24h
Category
electrolyte
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Ref low
136
Ref high
145
Critical range
120 N/A – 160 N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
CPT
84295
SNOMED
110741000
Specimen volume
5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

Why This Test Matters

Sodium is a key mineral that helps regulate fluid balance and blood pressure. Chronic high sodium intake is linked to increased risks of hypertension and cardiovascular issues. This test helps identify whether your diet may be contributing to these risks.

What to Expect During Testing

You’ll be asked to collect all urine for a full 24-hour period (typically from one morning to the next). Your healthcare provider will provide instructions on how to properly collect and store the sample. No special preparation is needed beyond keeping a consistent urine output.

How the Test Works

The collected urine is analyzed to determine the total sodium content excreted in your urine over the 24-hour period. This reflects how much sodium you’ve consumed and how efficiently your body is processing it.

Common Reasons for Testing

Doctors may order this test if you have high blood pressure, heart disease, kidney problems, or if you’re on a sodium-restricted diet. It can also help monitor sodium intake in patients with conditions like edema or congestive heart failure.

Reference range

Adult: 136-145 mmol/LN/A

Specimen: serum

No special preparation required. Stay well hydrated.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Short name

24h Sodium Intake

Frequently asked questions

How much sodium do I need to know about my intake?
This test provides a snapshot of your sodium consumption, which can help assess whether your diet aligns with recommended limits (typically 1,500–2,300 mg/day for most adults). Abnormally high or low intake may signal dietary habits or underlying health concerns that need attention.
What does a high sodium intake mean?
A high sodium intake (above 3,000 mg/day) may contribute to fluid retention, increased blood pressure, or strain on your heart and kidneys. It can also mask other electrolyte imbalances. Your doctor may recommend dietary adjustments or further testing if results are elevated.
Can low sodium intake be harmful?
Very low sodium intake (below 1,500 mg/day) may lead to fatigue, muscle cramps, or dizziness, especially in people with kidney issues or those on certain medications. However, excessive restriction isn’t always necessary for healthy individuals unless advised by a doctor.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy