Are there other benefits of drinking salt water?

Yes. Salt water may help support hydration, mental clarity, and nervous-system function, and may make fasting more manageable.

• Salt helps retain water and stabilize blood volume: Sodium helps regulate fluid balance, and water follows sodium; a small amount may help steady blood volume. 1
• A pinch may ease shakiness or lightheadedness: Some people find a little salt in water helps when they feel shaky, lightheaded, or unable to concentrate, including during a fast. 2 3
• It may help when consuming caffeine and during intermittent fasting: Caffeine can increase sodium and fluid excretion; Huberman describes using a tiny pinch of salt in water during fasting, particularly when drinking caffeine, and says salt may help curb hunger until the eating window. 4 5
• Sodium supports neuronal signaling: Sodium is essential to the electrical signals neurons use to communicate, so adequate sodium helps the brain and nervous system function. 6
• How to add it: The suggested practice is a small pinch of sea salt in water; lemon or lime is optional. Avoid overdoing salt, and people with chronic high blood pressure should be cautious about excess sodium. 7 8