Everything You Need to Know About the Salt Water Flush

The Salt Water Flush: A Natural Colon Cleanse

The salt water flush has become an increasingly popular natural remedy for cleansing the colon. This simple solution of warm water mixed with sea salt can stimulate bowel movements to help remove waste and toxins from the body. When done occasionally, a salt water flush can provide relief from constipation and may aid in reaching short-term weight loss goals. However, there are some risks to be aware of before trying this home remedy.

What is a Salt Water Flush?

A salt water flush involves drinking a salt water solution on an empty stomach to prompt bowel movements and flush out the colon. It's made by combining two ingredients:

• Warm filtered water - About 32 ounces (1 liter)
• Non-iodized sea salt - 1-2 tablespoons

The salt water solution is isotonic, which means it has a similar salt concentration to your body’s cells and blood. This allows the solution to move through the gastrointestinal tract rapidly to induce bowel movements.

Purported Benefits of a Salt Water Flush

There are several theorized benefits associated with doing a salt water flush:

• Relieves constipation - By stimulating bowel movements, a salt water flush can help relieve temporary constipation.
• Removes toxins - It may help flush out waste and toxins that have accumulated in the colon.
• Supports weight loss - Some people use it to lose a few pounds quickly before a weigh-in or event.
• Resets the digestive system - Taking a break from eating and flushing the colon may help some people reset their gastrointestinal system.

How to Do a Salt Water Flush

If you want to try a salt water flush, follow these simple steps:

1. Add 1-2 tablespoons of non-iodized sea salt to 32 ounces of warm filtered water and stir until dissolved. Use more salt for a stronger flush or less for a milder effect.
2. Drink on an empty stomach first thing in the morning before eating or drinking anything else.
3. Consume the entire salt water solution as quickly as you can without vomiting.
4. Remain near a toilet! You'll likely have loose bowel movements within 30 minutes to 2 hours.
5. The flush is finished when you are passing clear liquid out of the bowels. This may take 2-5 bowel movements.
6. Refrain from eating for at least an hour after finishing the flush to allow your intestines to settle.

Tips for an Effective, Safe Salt Water Flush

If you decide to try a salt water flush, keep these tips in mind:

• Start with 1 tablespoon salt dissolved in 32 ounces warm water as your first flush.
• Only use non-iodized sea salt, not table salt which has additives.
• Drink the solution quickly rather than sipping it slowly.
• Stay near a toilet for easy access once the flush starts working.
• Never do a flush if you are experiencing nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea.
• Avoid overusing salt water flushes and limit to once per month maximum.
• Rehydrate with electrolytes and eat something lightly salty after finishing the flush.
• Talk to your doctor before attempting a flush if you have gastrointestinal issues.

Risks and Side Effects

While generally safe for most healthy adults, the salt water flush does come with some risks and side effects to be aware of:

• Dehydration - The large fluid loss can cause temporary dehydration and electrolyte imbalances if fluids and electrolytes are not replenished after the flush.
• Dizziness - Some people may become light-headed during or after the flush due to dehydration.
• Nausea - Drinking the salt water quickly can cause nausea or vomiting in some cases.
• Abdominal cramps - Some cramping or bloating is common during the flush process.
• Irregular heartbeats - The rapid loss of water and electrolytes can very rarely cause abnormal heart rhythms.
• Bowel changes - Repeated flushes can disrupt healthy bowel function leading to diarrhea or constipation.

People with certain medical conditions like heart disease, kidney disease, or eating disorders should avoid doing a salt water flush without medical supervision. Pregnant women should also not do a flush as it may put the pregnancy at risk.

Recovering After a Salt Water Flush

Taking the right steps after completing the salt water flush can help you recover and avoid complications like dehydration. Here are some tips:

Replenish Fluids and Electrolytes

Drinking an oral rehydration solution is ideal after a flush to restore hydration and electrolyte levels. You can make one at home by combining:

• 1 quart (1 liter) of water
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 6 teaspoons of sugar
• Small amount of orange juice or lemon juice for flavor (optional)

Sip this solution slowly over 1-2 hours. You can also drink coconut water or an electrolyte sports drink to replenish electrolytes.

Eat a Light Meal

Go slowly when breaking your fast after the flush. Aim for something easy to digest like broth-based soup, bananas, rice, applesauce, or toast.

Avoid Certain Foods

Steer clear of fatty, rich, or heavy foods immediately after the flush while your digestive system recovers. Avoid things like:

• Greasy foods
• Processed foods
• Spicy foods
• High fat meats
• Dairy products
• Alcohol
• Coffee

Rest and Take it Easy

Give your body a chance to recover by taking things slow and avoiding strenuous activity for the rest of the day after doing a salt water flush.

Consider Probiotics

The salt water solution can wash out some of the healthy bacteria from your gut. Taking a probiotic supplement after the flush may help restore your microbiome.

When to See Your Doctor

In most cases, the salt water flush causes no more than some temporary discomfort. But if you experience any concerning symptoms after doing one, be sure to see a doctor right away including:

• Blood in bowel movements
• Diarrhea lasting more than 2 days
• Dizziness that won't go away
• Muscle cramps or weakness
• Rapid or irregular heartbeat
• Fever
• Nausea or vomiting that won't subside

Repeated flushes done too frequently may also disrupt normal bowel function over time. See your doctor if you rely on frequent flushing to have a bowel movement or experience chronic diarrhea or constipation after doing them.

The Bottom Line

When used occasionally, a salt water flush may provide a short-term cleanse for some people looking to reset their digestive system. However, it comes with risks like dehydration and electrolyte imbalances if fluids are not replenished afterwards. Frequent flushing can also disturb healthy bowel function over time. Seek medical advice if you have any concerns before attempting a salt water flush.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.