A salt water flush may seem like an easy and simple way to get rid of toxins and food wastes from the body but if consumed more than the prescribed quantity, or by people with existing medical conditions like ulcers or cancer, it can exhibit certain side effects. Go through this article to know more about the possible side effects or dangers in following this detoxification method.
The chief objective of a salt water flush is to cleanse the colon, flush out any toxins and waste by inducing bowel movement. This is typically advised to people suffering from constipation. The two main ingredients for this solution is two teaspoon of non-iodized sea salt and a quart of warm water. Shake the mixture well and gulp it down in one go. Some carry out this cleanse for a week or do it once every month. The salt water mixture is taken first thing in the morning, on an empty stomach which induces several bowel movements within the next one hour.
This simple and natural way to detoxify the body, though, some individuals have experienced certain disadvantages or side effects. Salt water flush affects people differently, some find it extremely beneficial, feel renewed, fresh, radiant, and in a better mood, whereas others find it difficult to swallow, feel sick and pale all day. Therefore, always consult a doctor, as only he knows what is beneficial and harmful for your body.
Each individual’s body needs and make up is different hence, many individuals experience side effects. Many people can’t keep the salt water down and vomit almost immediately, some people’s body system absorbs all the salt water instead of passing it which can cause further health issues. Besides these, certain possible side effects have been discussed below.
Dizziness, thirst, tiredness, headache, dry, peeling skin and a constantly dry mouth are some of the symptoms of dehydration. Loss of fluids from the body can happen, if this mixture is taken excessively or on an empty stomach. Diarrhea is another consequences that could also lead to dehydration.
Individuals who cannot tolerate the salt, eject it out immediately. This is a very common side effect of salt water flush that can affect the internal organs, tear or damage the esophagus as well as cause muscle pain or cramps.
Drinking salt water can cause an electrolyte imbalance in our body. The kidneys, in fact work harder or more than usual, in order to get rid of the excess salt. In extreme cases, this imbalance may also disturb or kill beneficial intestinal microorganisms or even lead to irregular heartbeat.
This cleanse can cause the kidneys to function improperly leading to dark-colored urine. This is a clear sign that the body is not receiving enough water to filter the wastes out of the body. Drinking salt water for an extended amount of time can also lead to partial or complete damage of the kidneys.
When patients with abnormally high blood pressure or with heart or kidney problems consume salt water, it causes the body to swell from excessive accumulation of watery fluids in cells, or tissues. So people following any medication or having a medical condition, should avoid salt water flush, as this could cause bloating and pain.
People who are taking any medication for an existing medical condition, pregnant and lactating women as well as people having the following health issues should avoid a salt water flush.
» Heart problems
» Diabetes
» Weak or diseased kidneys
» High blood pressure
» Intestinal problems
» Edema
» If you still want to try salt water flush, make sure you use only non-iodized, unprocessed sea salt; as regular table salt or iodized sea salt could make you feel nauseous and have other harmful side effects.
» This might seem like the easiest way to eliminate toxic buildup in the intestine and colon but must be carried out with caution. Do not ignore the side effects and consult a doctor immediately.
» Some doctors claim that overdoing or excessive cleansing could harm the colon and in fact should only be performed once a month to keep the body from becoming dehydrated.
» Do not have this solution, if your sleepy, incoherent, or intoxicated, as it can be life-threatening or even cause severe internal complications.
While consuming the salt mixture many people throw up or experience a gag response. This is also an indication that the body is trying to reject something it doesn’t want. The idea of cleansing ourselves internally by using something as simple and natural as sea salt can be very appealing but before you attempt a salt water flush, listen to what your body is saying and do keep in mind the possible dangers of this cleanse method.
Disclaimer: This article is for informative purposes only, and does not in any way attempt to replace the advice offered by a medical professional.