• Source:JND

As India is witnessing an increasing rise in temperature and intense heat, with bodies sweating more, maintaining hydration becomes more important than ever. Staying hydrated has become more than just drinking water. Although there are several hydrating drinks that are available, a simple addition of natural additives like rock salt into plain drinking water can enhance the overall hydration routine. This age-old remedy is commonly practised in Indian households, can make a significant difference in how the body retains fluid and stays energised. Rock salt or sendha namak is a mineral-rich salt that provides several health benefits, especially when added to water during the hotter months. Here’s everything you need to know about why adding rock salt to water in summer is beneficial.

Reasons Why Rock Salt Is Added To Water?

Plain water is always not enough during the scorching summer months. Adding rock salt to water helps prevent dehydration and fatigue during hot weather, workouts or illness. When the body sweats heavily due to exercise, walking or heat, it does not just lose water but also essential electrolytes, including sodium. This loss can cause dizziness, weakness and even muscle cramps. Rock salt is loaded with natural minerals and contains sodium in a less processed form than regular table salt. Adding a pinch of rock salt to water can help replenish the electrolytes lost through sweat or illness, especially during episodes of vomiting or diarrhoea and also keep the energy levels stable.

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Best Time To Drink Water With Rock Salt

There are a few key times when drinking water with rock salt provides maximum benefits to the body.

In The Morning: If a person wakes up feeling weak, dizzy or dehydrated, a glass of water with a pinch of rock salt can help restore balance and boost energy.

After Workout: Rehydrating the body after a workout session is vital. Rock salt water helps restore electrolyte levels and prevent post-exercise fatigue after sweat loss.

During Hot Weather: Long walks or outdoor work in summer heat can cause heavy sweating. Sipping rock salt water helps maintain sodium levels and prevents heat-related weakness.

Rock Salt

Rock Salt Offers Several Health Benefits (Image Credits: Canva)

How Much Rock Salt Water Is Safe?

Just adding a pinch of rock salt, about ⅛ teaspoon, is mixed with a glass of drinking water (200-250 ml). If needed, two glasses of rock salt water a day can be consumed and especially if you consume salty food.

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Who Should Avoid Rock Salt Water?

While this hydration trick can be helpful for many, it is not suitable for everyone. This drink must be avoided if you have:

Have high blood pressure, as extra sodium can worsen it.

Suffer from kidney disease, where sodium balance needs close management.

Experience water retention or bloating frequently.

Already eat a high-sodium diet, such as one rich in processed or packaged foods.

(Disclaimer: This content, including suggestions and advice, provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information before making any drastic changes in your lifestyle.)