Why You Should Never Drink Saltwater

Our planet is a blue marvel, with water covering more than 70% of its surface. Yet, amidst this abundance, a mere fraction—less than 3%—is fresh and potable. The irony of Earth's bounty is most felt when one stands by the sea, vast and brimming, yet unable to offer a drop to quench our thirst. Many have experienced the accidental gulp of saltwater at the beach and wondered, is it really so harmful to drink saltwater?

Why Is Saltwater Off Limits

The primary reason we cannot drink saltwater lies in the process of osmosis. When saltwater enters the body, the high salt concentration outside the body's cells causes water to flow out of the cells to dilute the salt. This results in cell dehydration, which, ironically, increases thirst. Our kidneys play a crucial role in filtering and excreting waste from our bodies. Drinking saltwater forces the kidneys to work overtime to remove excess salt. However, there's a catch: the kidneys can only produce urine that is less salty than saltwater. Thus, to excrete the excess salt consumed, the body must use more water than it takes in, leading to further dehydration.

Consuming large amounts of saltwater can lead to hypernatremia, a condition characterized by dangerously high levels of sodium in the blood. Symptoms include confusion, seizures, and, in severe cases, coma and death. The body's delicate balance of electrolytes is disrupted, showcasing the dangers of ingesting high-salt solutions. Regular consumption of saltwater can also strain the heart, increase blood pressure, and risk chronic conditions such as hypertension and stroke. The immediate effects of dehydration may be reversible, but the long-term health risks pose a significant concern.

Can You Use Saltwater in the Kitchen? With Caution

Despite the dangers of drinking saltwater, it finds a place in culinary practices. Saltwater can be used for cooking, particularly in boiling pasta or seafood, adding flavor depth. The key difference here is the dilution and combination with other ingredients, mitigating the risks associated with its consumption in its pure form. However, it's crucial to use saltwater judiciously to avoid over-salting and maintain nutritional balance.