Should i drink water with salt right after wake up?

Andrew Huberman has discussed the importance of salt and its effects on hydration and blood sugar levels. He suggests that drinking saltwater, especially in the morning, can help with alertness and stabilize blood sugar. Specifically, he notes that ingesting salt can help manage physical and mental states, particularly for those practicing intermittent fasting or who consume caffeine regularly, since caffeine can cause the excretion of sodium. A small pinch of salt in water can offset feelings of lightheadedness or shakiness due to low blood sugar levels 1.

Moreover, Dr. Huberman personally drinks salt water first thing in the morning in response to coffee consumption to keep his alertness levels up. However, he recommends consulting a doctor before experimenting with sodium intake, particularly for individuals with hypertension or blood sugar issues 2.

The idea is that some people might mistake signs of low blood sugar for what is actually low sodium, especially after consuming caffeine. So, the recommendation of drinking water with a pinch of salt in the morning could help those experiencing similar issues. However, it should be noted that everyone's health situation is different, and consulting with healthcare professionals before making significant changes to diet or hydration practices is always advisable.

Andrew Huberman suggests a simple method for adding salt to water: include a couple of sprinkles of table salt or Himalayan salt to your drink, aiming for around 500 milligrams of salt before and after exercise 1. This amount ensures that you're maintaining a proper salt balance, especially if you're engaging in physical activities or sweating a lot.

He also emphasizes the importance of paying attention to your body's cues and adjusting salt intake accordingly, but the general guideline of a small pinch is often sufficient for most people in typical situations 2. Always consult with a healthcare professional before making changes to your diet, especially regarding salt intake, to accommodate any specific health conditions.