Sodium and Potassium Intake from Food Diaries and 24-h Urine Collections from 7 Days in a Sample of Healthy Greek Adults

Objective: The main objective of the present study was to evaluate sodium and potassium intake, employing 24 h and spot urine samples and food diaries for seven consecutive days. Methods: For seven consecutive days subjects recorded their food and drink intakes, and recorded and collected all urinations. Food sodium and potassium intake were analyzed in 24-and 6-h intervals from wake-up time. Urine indices were analyzed in first morning, 24-and 6-h intervals samples over the day from wake-up time. The study took place in Agricultural University of Athens, Greece. In total, 163 healthy subjects (age 39 +/- 12 years; 74 females) were enrolled in the study. Results: Mean urine sodium excretion was 2,803.3 +/- 1,249.0 mg/day (121.9 +/- 54.3 mmol/day) and mean urine potassium excretion was 2,152.2 +/- 913.3 mg/day (55.2 +/- 23.4 mmol/day). The highest potassium concentration was measured in the afternoon, while the lowest sodium concentration was measured in the overnight 6-h interval. Food sodium intake was 1,983.2 +/- 814.1 mg/day and food potassium was 2,264.5 +/- 653.3 mg/day. The sources that contribute most in food sodium intake are dairy products 24%, breads 22%, and savory snacks 17%. Conclusion: Strategies should encourage the Greek population to moderate sodium intake and promote potassium intake, thus adopting a healthier dietary and lifestyle pattern.