What are the recommended sodium levels for adults?

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration suggests a daily sodium intake of 2,300 milligrams or less for the average adult, which is equivalent to 1 teaspoon of salt. The FDA also recommends no more than 1,500 milligrams of sodium per day for the elderly and those who suffer from hypertension.

Roughly 75 percent of an adult's sodium intake comes from processed foods or salt added during the cooking process at restaurants. The FDA states that foods that contain more than 20 percent of the daily value of sodium, as listed on the nutritional facts label, are too high in sodium and recommends foods that contain 5 percent or less sodium per serving.