Sipping warm salt water relieves sore throats caused by colds and allergies. But there’s more to it! We all need a small amount of sodium or salt to maintain proper fluid function and electrolyte levels in the body. Mixing salt in water and drinks therefore promotes hydration, electrolyte balance and digestion. Drinking salt water can also help you strengthen the immune system.
Salt water is good for overall health, says Dr Sumol Ratna, a general practitioner at the Noida International Institute of Medical Science.
7 health benefits of warm salt water
1. Rehydration and electrolyte balance
Drinking water in any form helps you stay hydrated, but salt water also helps maintain proper electrolyte balance. Dr. Ratna says, “To function optimally, the human body requires a precise balance of electrolytes, including sodium, potassium, calcium and magnesium. So consuming salt water in moderation can help replenish these essential electrolytes lost during physical activity, in hot conditions or during illness. Your muscles, nerves and body systems will function more effectively when you drink salt water.
2. Promotes digestion
When consumed in moderation, salt water can help promote better digestion. A 2010 study in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine showed that salt water can help with bowel movements. It can increase the secretion of digestive fluids, which will aid in the breakdown of food in the stomach and improve nutrient absorption. In addition, it helps maintain the pH value of the stomach, which is necessary for the best possible digestion.
3. Detoxification
Drinking salt water can have detoxifying properties, which can help flush toxins from your body through sweating. In addition, salt water can activate the kidneys and liver, allowing the body to remove waste products. This can result in better overall health and well-being.
4. Good for the skin
Salt water can also improve the health of your skin. When applied topically, salt water can help exfoliate and rejuvenate the skin, reducing the symptoms of acne, psoriasis and eczema. But when you drink salt water, it can contribute to clearer and healthier skin by balancing the body’s pH level, reducing inflammation and eliminating toxins.
Also read: Getting smooth skin is super easy if you wash your face with salt water
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5. Prevents breathing problems
When our throat gets a little irritated, our mothers always recommend gargling with warm salt water and drinking it. According to an in vivo study, salt water blocks the reactions of immunoglobulin E (IgE), histamine and pro-inflammatory cytokines, which can also cause an allergic reaction. Dr. Ratna also says, “Salt water helps break up mucus, reduce inflammation and ease discomfort, which improves overall lung and breathing function, making it a potential home remedy for colds, allergies and other respiratory ailments.
6. Promotes weight loss
Drinking salt water not directly, but in moderation can indirectly help with weight control. It can help cleanse your digestive system and remove toxins and waste, which can help maintain a healthy weight.
7. Stress reduction
The soothing and calming effects of salt water are well known. It helps promote relaxation and reduce stress levels. Dr. Ratna says, “The minerals in salt water, such as magnesium, have a calming effect on the nervous system, making you feel more at ease and improving your mental well-being.”
Is warm salt water better than normal salt water?
Drinking salt water is generally good for your health. However, warm salt water is often recommended for its soothing and therapeutic effects. It can help with digestion, respiratory problems and stress reduction. It can be used as a home remedy to treat sore and irritated throat due to allergies or colds. Make sure the salt is completely dissolved before drinking to avoid discomfort or irritation. Also drink it in moderation.
Although there are several health benefits associated with drinking seawater, moderation is key. Drinking too much salt can cause many health problems, such as increased blood pressure and decreased kidney function.