Sodium: Supply Situation

In the National Nutrition Survey II (NVS II, 2008), the dietary behavior of the population was investigated for Germany and it was shown how this affects the average daily nutrient intake with macro- and micronutrients (vital substances).

The intake recommendations (D-A-CH reference values) of the German Nutrition Society (DGE) are used as the basis for assessing nutrient supply. A comparison of the nutrient intake determined in the NVS II with the recommendations of the DGE shows for which micronutrients (vital substances) there is a more frequent undersupply in Germany.

For sodium, the reference values were revised by the German Nutrition Society (DGE) in 2016. Now an estimated value for an adequate sodium intake for women and men is given, whereas previously it was an estimated value for a minimum intake.

Regarding the supply situation, it can be stated:

  • The intake recommendation for sodium is achieved by men in all age groups.
  • Among women, only 9% do not reach the recommended daily intake of sodium.
    • In the youngest age group (14-18 years), the proportions are slightly higher at 13%. Likewise in the age group of 19-24 year old women (14%).
    • The worst-supplied women lack 321 mg of sodium. This corresponds to a daily shortfall of 21.4% of the recommended intake.
  • Pregnant and breastfeeding women have no additional need for sodium compared to their non-pregnant or non-breastfeeding peers. Thus, the same supply situation applies to them as to the non-pregnant or non-breastfeeding women.
  • In Germany, 80% to 90% of sodium is ingested as sodium chloride (table salt). The amount of 6 g of table salt per day (corresponding to 2.4 g of sodium), which is considered acceptable by the DGE, is exceeded by the majority in the German population.

Since the intake recommendations of the DGE are based on the needs of healthy and normal-weight people, an individual additional need (eg due todiet, stimulant consumption, long-term medication, etc.) may be above the intake recommendations of the DGE.