24-Hour Sodium Intake Measurement
This test measures the total amount of sodium (salt) you consume over a 24-hour period, helping assess dietary sodium intake and its potential impact on health.
["Understanding your sodium intake helps manage conditions like high blood pressure or kidney function."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 9087-8
- Short code
- Sodium intake Measured
- Synonyms
- Sodium intake 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 in Health
Sodium is a key mineral that helps regulate fluid balance and blood pressure. Chronic high sodium intake is linked to conditions like hypertension and heart disease. This test helps doctors evaluate whether your diet meets recommended limits.
How the Test Works
Instead of testing your blood or urine sodium levels directly, this test measures the sodium content in all foods and beverages you consume over 24 hours. You’ll track your intake using a provided diary or app, and your healthcare provider will review the results with you.
You’ll need to record everything you eat and drink for a full day, including snacks, sauces, and even seasoning. Some labs may provide a detailed guide to ensure accuracy. Avoid special diets or supplements unless instructed by your provider.
This test requires no special preparation beyond keeping a detailed record of your intake. Your healthcare provider will review the results to compare them with your usual dietary habits and medical history.
Possible Results and Interpretation
Results are typically expressed in milligrams (mg) or grams (g) of sodium consumed. High intake may exceed daily recommendations, while low intake might indicate dietary restrictions or deficiencies. Your provider will discuss these findings in relation to your health goals.
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
Frequently asked questions
What does a 24-hour sodium intake test involve?
Doctors may order this test if you have high blood pressure, kidney disease, or heart conditions. It helps assess whether your sodium intake aligns with health recommendations and guides dietary adjustments.
High intake may require reducing processed foods and salt. Low intake might need further evaluation to rule out dietary restrictions or nutritional needs. Your provider will discuss next steps based on the results.
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