There is evidence to suggest that salt tablets can help prevent dehydration in certain situations.Ī small 2016 study found evidence to support the use of salt supplementation to prevent dehydration during exercise. People who are taking salt tablets to prevent heat cramps should take one tablet orally as directed by a doctor. Dissolve one tablet in 4 ounces of water and take as directed by a doctor or healthcare professional. People can dissolve salt tablets in water to make an isotonic solution. They should be safely stored at room temperature, around 59–86☏ (15–30☌). Salt tablets usually contain around 400 milligrams of sodium. Taking tablets with food may reduce the likelihood of an upset stomach. People taking salt tablets should follow the guidance of their doctor or follow the dosage instructions on the packaging. People can purchase salt tablets over the counter, but if a person takes an excessive amount of salt tablets, they may experience potentially serious symptoms. Instead, they found that factors such as body mass, longer training distances, and avoiding excessive fluid intake were more important in preventing these issues.īefore taking salt tablets, a person should inform their doctor of anything that may be relevant, such as allergies, underlying health conditions such as high blood pressure or kidney disease, or whether they are pregnant or breastfeeding. However, there is less evidence to suggest that they are effective in preventing illness caused by long-distance running.Ī 2021 study into the effect of sodium supplements and climate during ultramarathons, found that salt tablets did not appear to protect athletes from symptoms of low electrolytes, such as cramps. There is some evidence to suggest that salt tablets are an effective treatment for hyponatremia.Ī 2020 study into their use as a treatment for hyponatremia found a small but significant increase in people’s sodium blood levels, compared with people who did not receive salt tablets.

manage symptoms and side effects of underlying conditions.

keep a good balance of electrolytes in the body after illness or exercise.

improve hydration during exercise, particularly during endurance activities.

People take salt tablets for many reasons, such as to: A doctor may prescribe salt tablets to prevent hyponatremia from developing. This happens when athletes, often long-distance runners, consume too much water during physical activity, depleting natural levels of sodium.Īs a result, many marathon and long-distance runners take salt tablets before or during long runs to avoid cramps associated with low levels of electrolytes.Īn underlying medical condition, such as cystic fibrosis, can cause the body to lose more salt in sweat, especially in children and young adults with the condition.

excessive thirst, causing too much fluid intakeĮxercise can also cause exercise-associated hyponatremia.

severe vomiting or diarrhea, which depletes the body of fluids and salt.

diuretics (water pills), which increases sodium in urine.

congestive heart failure, when excess fluid builds up in the body.

kidney failure, when the kidneys are unable to rid the body of extra fluid.

According to the National Kidney Foundation, causes of hyponatremia include: A normal blood sodium level is around 135–145 milliequivalents/liter (mEq/L).Ī doctor will diagnose hyponatremia when levels of sodium fall to under 135 mEq/L. The body needs electrolytes to regulate fluids in the body, ensuring hydration and helping the body function well.Ī doctor may prescribe or recommend salt tablets when a person has symptoms of hyponatremia, meaning they have low levels of sodium in the blood. Sodium is both a mineral and an electrolyte. Salt tablets, or salt pills, may help replace low levels of sodium in the body. Share on Pinterest ATU Images/Getty Images

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