Sodium & blood volume
How much sodium do people with POTS typically use?
Many POTS protocols involve higher sodium intake to raise blood volume. The numbers vary — and they must be personalised with a clinician.
Educational ranges — not personal advice
Always check with your care team
Why more salt?
Higher sodium → higher blood volume (for many people).
Sodium helps your kidneys keep more fluid in circulation. With more blood volume, your body may cope better when you stand up, which can reduce dizziness and “crash” episodes.
Typical elements of a plan
- Baseline sodium target (spread across the day)
- Electrolyte drinks with clear sodium content
- Extra fluids with meals and before standing
It’s not just about hitting a number — it’s about timing, symptoms, and how you feel day-to-day.
Safety matters
- Too much sodium can raise blood pressure.
- Kidney and heart conditions may limit how much you can safely use.
- Some medications interact with high-sodium plans.
This is why you should never copy someone else’s sodium routine 1:1 from social media.