Can Saline Water Be Drinkable? Understanding the Risks and Desalination Methods
                                
                                
                                •
                                
                                
                        
                                    
                                    5 min read                                
                            
                                According to the U.S. Geological Survey, the oceans contain about 96.5% of the Earth's water, but its high salt content means you cannot drink saline water directly. When humans ingest salt water, their kidneys must work overtime to process and expel the excess salt, a process that requires more water than was consumed, leading to severe dehydration.