Salt Tablets

Salt has been one of the oldest known diet supplement in its natural form. Its chemical formula is NaCl. Of course, today's modern times have brought in many advances like sophisticated healthy energy drinks, supplements, energy builders and similar products to enhance the durability of athletes or people in general. Salt in the form of tablets has been used since the late 1800s. It was then used by laborers working in hot and heavy industrial environment. Also it was used by national armies during World War II, helping soldiers fight dehydration in jungle and desert environs. Lately, its use has been increased considerably in sports, helping athletes and professionals.

What are Salt Tablets?

Salt tablets are tablets containing sodium and chloride. They are also known as salt pills and are usually sold as a dietary supplement. Salt is discharged from our bodies in the form of sweat (every liter of sweat contains approx. 2.5-3.5 grams of salt). Hence this loss of sweat is replaced by taking these tablets. If these tablets are not taken with water, then there may be chances of substantial salt imbalance. For proper metabolism of our bodies it is important to maintain proper salt water balance.

Generally, the use of salt tablets is not necessary for most of us. And that is because in some or the other way we consume more than the required amount of salt. The reason is that salt is used in preparation and preservation of many foods we consume. People who consume packaged foods and also those who eat outside a lot are more likely to consume more than the required amount of sodium. People who strictly follow a vegetarian diet don't require salt supplements. There has been a gradual increase in the use of these tablets for runners, athletes, triathletes, etc.

Sodium is a necessary component for the body to perform well. The sodium level in our bodies must be appropriate, low levels of sodium is harmful but then even access of sodium levels can also be fatal. This condition is known as hypernatremia. It results in metabolic imbalance and can result in seizures and death. The condition when the sodium levels are low is known as hypornatremia, is equally fatal. Hyponatremia can lead to severe consequences, because in it even if the body is dehydrated, it will not take the required amount of water from the stomach through the small intestine, and this is because low levels of sodium triggers the body not to take in more water without sodium being available.

Uses

We know that sodium is lost from the body from perspiration and urine excretion. When we sweat, it also releases potassium which is a salt in itself. It becomes important to let the sodium remain in proportion in our body. Sodium can be replaced through diet sources or through supplements. It helps to maintain the proper salt level which gets lost naturally. Salt tablets are also used as nutritional support for heat prostration, muscles cramps, chronic fatigue, etc. Patients with Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia (POTS) syndrome take such tablets to retain fluids in their system. This increases blood volume to reduce their symptoms.

It is also used as a supplement in the form of sports drink. Salt tablets if taken with a sports drink or fruit drinks which naturally contain potassium, are easier to digest. They go well with these drinks because they already contain a considerable amount of salt. Salt tablets if taken orally, can be a problem for athletes. In its raw form, the tablets are difficult to digest and they may cause problems like diarrhea, nausea, and gastric irritation. Since it is difficult for the stomach to digest it, it also means that its effect will also be delayed. If a salt tablet is taken without a fluid, there are more chances of the body getting dehydrated. Taking salt tablets for dehydration with water ensures that both of these are available to the body in proportion.

It is advisable to take salt tablets only if you are not getting it enough from food and sports drinks. If you think you are not able to get the required amount of salt, it's only then you must consider taking such supplementary tablets. Some minor and common symptoms like nausea and mild muscle cramps can be treated by taking salty foods and keeping yourself hydrated with sports drinks. The use of a salt substitute must be done only if it has been prescribed by a specialist. However, it is highly recommended to seek medical advice before you indulge in any medication.