The Science Behind Salt and Hydration
Proper hydration involves more than just drinking plain water. It requires a delicate balance of fluids and electrolytes, which are minerals that carry an electrical charge. These electrolytes, including sodium, potassium, and magnesium, are crucial for numerous bodily functions, from nerve impulses and muscle contractions to maintaining cellular fluid levels.
When we sweat, especially during exercise or in hot climates, we lose both water and electrolytes. If not replenished, this loss can lead to dehydration, muscle cramps, and fatigue. The sodium component of salt plays a key role in helping your body absorb and retain water more effectively, ensuring that fluid reaches your cells where it's needed most. This is why adding a small amount of salt to your water can be a highly beneficial hydration strategy.
Why Choose Redmond Real Salt for Hydration?
Not all salt is created equal. Standard table salt is often heavily processed, bleached, and stripped of its natural minerals, leaving behind primarily sodium and chloride. Anti-caking agents are also commonly added. Redmond Real Salt, harvested from an ancient seabed in Utah, is different because it is unrefined and untouched by modern pollutants, retaining over 60 naturally occurring trace minerals.
The mineral content in Redmond Real Salt, including potassium, magnesium, calcium, and more, works in concert with the sodium to support the body's natural functions. This balanced mineral profile is what makes it a superior choice for replenishing lost electrolytes and supporting overall hydration compared to highly processed alternatives.
Trace Minerals vs. Processed Salt: A Comparison
| Feature | Redmond Real Salt | Processed Table Salt | 
|---|---|---|
| Origin | Ancient, protected seabed in Utah | Modern oceans; heavily refined | 
| Processing | Minimally processed; unrefined, unbleached | Heat-processed, bleached, and additives added | 
| Mineral Content | Contains 60+ trace minerals (e.g., calcium, potassium, magnesium) | Stripped of most minerals; mainly sodium and chloride | 
| Additives | Additive-free | Often includes anti-caking agents and dextrose | 
| Flavor Profile | Subtle, slightly sweet taste from mineral content | Often harsh, one-dimensional salty flavor | 
Methods to Use Redmond Real Salt for Optimal Hydration
There are several simple and effective ways to incorporate Redmond Real Salt into your hydration routine:
Quick Electrolyte Drink
For a fast, on-the-go boost, this simple method works well:
- Combine 1 quart (4 cups) of clean water with ¼ teaspoon of Redmond Real Salt.
- Stir well until dissolved. Some fine mineral sediment may remain, which is normal for unrefined salt.
- For added flavor and electrolytes, you can also add a squeeze of lemon juice, some honey, or a cup of coconut water.
Daily Sole Water
Sole (pronounced “so-lay”) water is a concentrated brine solution that can be used daily to boost mineral intake.
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How to prepare sole water: - Fill a glass jar about a quarter full with Redmond Real Salt.
- Add filtered water until the jar is almost full.
- Seal the jar with a non-metal lid and shake to combine.
- Let it sit for at least 24 hours. Undissolved salt at the bottom indicates the water is fully saturated.
 
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How to use sole water: - Add 1 teaspoon of the sole water to a glass of clean water each morning on an empty stomach.
- Start with a smaller dose and adjust based on your body's needs and how you feel.
 
Pre- and Post-Workout Regimen
- Before a workout: Drinking water with Redmond Real Salt 30-60 minutes prior to exercise can boost blood volume and circulation, improving your performance.
- After a workout: Replenishing lost sodium and other minerals post-exercise is crucial for muscle recovery and preventing cramps. Mix ¼ tsp of Redmond Real Salt per quart of water to replenish what was lost in sweat.
Precautions and Considerations
While natural salts offer benefits, moderation is key. Most Americans consume more sodium than recommended.
- Watch your intake: Pay attention to the total sodium from all sources, not just the salt you add to your water. The daily recommended amount of sodium is generally under 2,300 mg for most healthy adults.
- Consult a doctor: Individuals with high blood pressure, heart conditions, or kidney disease should consult their doctor before increasing salt intake. Excess sodium can worsen these conditions.
- Potential side effects: Consuming too much salt can lead to bloating, water retention, increased thirst, and elevated blood pressure.
Conclusion
Using Redmond Real Salt for hydration goes beyond simply adding sodium to your diet; it provides a balanced, mineral-rich source of electrolytes essential for cellular health and overall wellness. By opting for this unrefined, natural salt over processed table salt, you can better support your body's hydration needs, especially during physical activity or hot weather. Whether you choose a simple electrolyte drink or a concentrated sole water tonic, incorporating this ancient sea salt can be a powerful and straightforward strategy for staying properly hydrated and feeling your best.
For more information on the health benefits and sourcing of Redmond Real Salt, you can visit the official Redmond Life blog.
FAQs
Question: How much Redmond Real Salt should I use in my water? Answer: A general recommendation is to add ¼ teaspoon of Redmond Real Salt per quart (or liter) of water. This provides a sufficient amount of electrolytes without being overwhelmingly salty.
Question: Is Redmond Real Salt better than processed table salt for hydration? Answer: Yes, Redmond Real Salt is unrefined and contains over 60 trace minerals that work synergistically to support optimal cellular hydration, unlike processed table salt which is stripped of these beneficial minerals.
Question: What is sole water and how does it help with hydration? Answer: Sole water is a saturated brine solution made with unrefined salt and water. A small amount, typically a teaspoon, is added to a glass of water daily to provide a consistent dose of electrolytes and trace minerals for improved cellular absorption.
Question: Can I use Redmond Real Salt for a pre-workout drink? Answer: Yes, consuming 2-3 grams of Real Salt in 20-30 oz of water 30-60 minutes before a workout can boost blood volume and circulation, enhancing your performance and stamina.
Question: Are there any risks to adding salt to my water? Answer: While beneficial, consuming too much salt can lead to side effects like bloating, increased thirst, and elevated blood pressure. Individuals with certain health conditions should consult a doctor before increasing salt intake.
Question: Why is electrolyte balance so important for hydration? Answer: Electrolytes like sodium, potassium, and magnesium help regulate fluid balance and nerve function. If electrolytes are out of balance, your body cannot effectively absorb or retain water, leading to dehydration symptoms despite drinking fluids.
Question: How does Redmond Real Salt help with muscle cramps? Answer: Redmond Real Salt replenishes the essential electrolytes, such as sodium, potassium, and magnesium, that are lost through sweat during exercise. Replenishing these minerals supports proper muscle function and can help prevent muscle cramps.