24-Hour Sodium Intake Measurement
This test measures how much sodium you consume over a 24-hour period, helping assess dietary sodium balance and potential health risks related to high or low sodium intake.
["Understanding your sodium intake helps manage blood pressure and kidney health."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 81012-7
- Short code
- Sodium intake 24h Measured
- Synonyms
- Sodium intake 24h Measured
- 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
- Method
- measured
- 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 in your body. Chronic high sodium intake is linked to increased blood pressure and heart disease risk, while very low intake may affect muscle function and hydration. This test helps doctors determine if your diet aligns with recommended levels for your health goals.
How the Test Works
You’ll be asked to track and record all sodium-containing foods and beverages consumed over 24 hours. A healthcare provider may provide guidance on recording details like portion sizes and specific sodium sources. The total sodium intake is then calculated from your recorded intake.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed beyond keeping a detailed food and drink log. You may be asked to avoid certain medications or supplements that could affect sodium levels, but this is rare for this type of test.
What to Expect During the Test
There is no blood draw or lab specimen collection for this test. Instead, you’ll submit your recorded intake data to your healthcare provider or lab for analysis.
Reference range
Adult: 136-145 mmol/LN/A
No special preparation required. Stay well hydrated.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
24h Sodium Intake
Frequently asked questions
How is sodium intake measured differently from blood sodium levels?
Can I still eat normally while keeping a 24-hour sodium intake log?
Will my doctor prescribe a special diet before this test?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
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.
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