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Tools for Life - Hydration
 "Salt Wasters" And Dehydration
Aldosterone is the adrenal cortex hormone the
human body uses to regulate sodium (salt) and potassium (a.k.a.
electrolytes) and, therefore, blood pressure.
Due to no or very little aldosterone production,
people with primary adrenal insufficiency (primary Addison's disease) and
the majority (75%) of those diagnosed with classical congenital adrenal
hyperplasia (CAH) are categorized as "salt-wasters", and must replace this
aldosterone hormone orally (with fludrocortisone acetate, a.k.a. Florinef®).
Even with oral replacement, maintaining the
optimum levels of this hormone can be a challenge. When these "salt wasters"
exert themselves heavily, or spend enough time in hot temperatures, there is
a good possibility of their losing too much salt in sweat and urine, putting
them at higher then normal risk for dehydration. Therefore, "salt wasters"
should be sure to drink enough non-sugar-laden liquids, and supplement with
enough salt to alleviate this dangerous situation.
Some good liquid options to consider: water
(always the best liquid), seltzer or soda water, tea of any type, fruit
juice, milk, broth, etc. (Cold salted liquids are not recommended...too much
salt at one time can cause diarrhea.)
Salty food ideas: dill pickles, pretzels, nuts,
olives, broth, potato chips, etc.
August 2005
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