A saltwater flush involves drinking warm water mixed with non-iodized salt, which creates a laxative effect and may help relieve constipation. It may take 30 minutes to an hour for a saltwater flush to work, although in some cases it may take longer.
How to do a saltwater flush
- Mix 2 tablespoons of non-iodized salt in 4 cups of lukewarm water.
- Add lemon juice if you want to make the mixture taste better. It can also help with rehydration.
- Consume the mixture immediately or within 5 minutes.
- Allow the saltwater combination to enter the lower intestines by lying on your right side for 30 minutes.
- Take a walk or do yoga to help stimulate bowel movements.
What are the benefits of a saltwater flush?
- Promotes digestion: Drinking sea salt with lukewarm water may promote digestion. Warm water stimulates and helps open the bowels.
- Relieves constipation: Saltwater, especially with sea salt, acts as a laxative. Because the mixture stimulates gut movements, you may experience better bowel movements and relief from constipation.
- Replaces lost sodium: Sodium is an essential electrolyte that helps with various bodily functions. We tend to lose sodium through urine and sweat, especially with exercise or strenuous physical activity. Drinking saltwater can help you restore electrolyte balance in your body.
- Prevents muscle cramps: Himalayan salt contains various minerals such as sodium, potassium, calcium, and magnesium, which work together to promote muscular contraction and relaxation. This helps with muscle discomfort and cramps caused by electrolyte imbalances. Magnesium is also anti-inflammatory, which aids in alleviating general body aches and pain.
- Other benefits: Some claim that a saltwater flush can help with migraines and body odor as well as promote skin health. There are, however, no studies to back those claims.
What are the side effects of a saltwater flush?
Side effects associated with a saltwater flush include:
- Dehydration if you do not consume enough fluids following a saltwater flush
- Acid reflux in people who have sensitive stomachs or ulcers.
- Nausea and vomiting if there is too much salt
- Unpleasant taste that may be unpalatable to some people
Some people use premade sea salt flush packages available in stores. However, these solutions can contain up to 4,700 mg of salt, which is almost twice the daily recommended amount of sodium. It is important to keep in mind that extra salt is not recommended for people with kidney dysfunction.
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Medically Reviewed on 11/23/2021
References
Image Source: Getty Images
How long does it take for a saltwater flush to work? https://www.mvorganizing.org/how-long-does-it-take-for-a-salt-water-flush-to-work/
What Is a Saltwater Flush? https://www.liveheal.org/posts/saltwater-flush
How long does it take for a saltwater flush to work? https://www.mvorganizing.org/how-long-does-it-take-for-a-salt-water-flush-to-work/
What Is a Saltwater Flush? https://www.liveheal.org/posts/saltwater-flush
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