How much potassium or sodium is actually healthy?

Reviewed by Yoshinori Abe, MD

Internal Medicine

Balanced sodium and potassium levels are essential for good health, helping you feel your best and potentially live longer. Sodium regulates fluid balance and blood pressure, while potassium supports heart function, muscle contractions, and nerve signals. Eating the right amount of both minerals—typically less sodium and more potassium from whole foods—can reduce your risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke.

If you're experiencing symptoms like fatigue, muscle cramps, irregular heartbeat, or swelling, an electrolyte imbalance could be the cause. Rather than guessing, take a free, instant, online symptom check to better understand what your body is telling you and get clear guidance on your next steps. It only takes a few minutes and can help you decide whether to adjust your diet, monitor at home, or consult a doctor.

Reviewed for medical accuracy: 07/15/2026

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Explanation

Eating the right amount of sodium and potassium is important for your health.

Sodium: Most people should eat less than 2,300 milligrams of sodium each day. Eating too much sodium can make your heart work harder and can lead to high blood pressure.

Potassium: Getting enough potassium is also important. Adults should aim for around 2,600 to 3,400 milligrams each day. Potassium helps your body balance fluids and keeps your muscles and nerves working well.

Why It Matters: When you have the right balance of sodium and potassium, it can help lower your risk of heart problems and other health issues. Eating lots of fruits, vegetables, and other healthy foods can help you get enough potassium while keeping your sodium intake low.

Remember, eating well can help you feel good and stay healthy. If you're experiencing any unusual symptoms or have concerns about how your diet may be affecting your health, you can use our free symptom checker to better understand what might be going on and when to seek professional care.

(References)

Liu D, Tian Y, Wang R, Zhang T, Shen S, Zeng P, & Zou T. (2024). Sodium, potassium intake, and all-cause mortality. BMC public health, 38225648.
Salman E, Kadota A, & Miura K. (2024). Global guidelines recommendations for dietary sodium and .... Hypertension research : official journal of the Japanese Society of Hypertension, 38589606.
National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine; Health and Medicine Division; Food and Nutrition Board; Committee to Review the Dietary Reference Intakes for Sodium and Potassium, Oria M, Harrison M, & Stallings VA. (2019). Dietary Reference Intakes for Sodium and Potassium. Unknown Journal, 30844154.

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