Which statement accurately describes the relationship between sodium intake and ascites management?

Lower sodium intake can help manage fluid buildup, making it the correct choice regarding ascites management. Ascites, which often occurs in individuals with liver disease or cirrhosis, is characterized by fluid accumulation in the abdominal cavity. One of the primary strategies for managing this condition is to limit sodium intake since sodium can lead to increased fluid retention. When sodium levels are high, the body retains more fluid to balance the sodium concentration, exacerbating the ascites.

In clinical practice, restricting sodium helps to minimize the retention of fluid in the body and can, therefore, alleviate symptoms and complications associated with ascites. This dietary modification can enhance the effectiveness of diuretics, which are medications often prescribed to encourage fluid loss.

The other statements do not accurately represent the relationship between sodium intake and ascites management. For instance, increased sodium does not contribute to reducing fluid retention; rather, it typically worsens it. Additionally, there is ample evidence supporting the importance of sodium restriction in managing ascites, making any suggestion that sodium restriction is unnecessary misleading. Finally, high sodium intake does not aid liver function; on the contrary, it can contribute to the worsening of liver-related issues by promoting fluid overload and increasing hypertension.