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Can drinking salt and sugar water help in reducing the impact of heat strokes?
ETimes | June 10, 2025 12:39 AM CST

With the rising temperature, there has been an increase in summer-induced ailments like heat strokes, dehydration, diarrhea, stomach infections and summer-induced fatigue and fever. Heat strokes are common in this season, but little do we know that sunstrokes may also turn severe and life-threatening in some cases when left untreated. Well, if you too are feeling weak and struggling with a sudden heat stroke, this age-old remedy of mixing salt and sugar in water can naturally help in treating this season-induced health concern. Here’s all you need to know about it…


What is a heatstroke?
Sunstroke, also known as heatstroke, is a serious condition, which may also turn life-threatening in some cases. According to health experts, this condition may be a result of excessive sun exposure. In fact, this condition occurs when the body overheats and is unable to regulate its internal temperature. While it is common during intense summer heat, especially with prolonged exposure to the sun or heavy physical activity. One of the most effective natural remedies during early stages of heat exhaustion or dehydration involves a simple mix of salt and sugar. Here’s how these two basic kitchen ingredients can help:


Why salt and sugar?
When salt (sodium chloride) and sugar (glucose) are combined in water, they create an effective oral rehydration solution (ORS) that helps the body quickly absorb fluids and electrolytes. Sodium helps retain water and maintains fluid balance, while glucose enhances the absorption of both water and sodium in the small intestine. This simple combination restores lost electrolytes, prevents dehydration, and stabilizes blood pressure, making it an essential remedy for treating heat strokes and heat exhaustion. It provides vital nutrients like sodium and glucose, which are crucial for energy, hydration, and cellular function during extreme heat conditions.

Replenishes lost electrolytes
When you sweat excessively during a heat wave or sun exposure, your body loses not just water but also essential electrolytes like sodium and potassium. Salt helps replenish sodium levels in the body, which is critical for nerve function and fluid balance. Without it, cells can’t absorb enough water, worsening dehydration.



Boosts hydration with glucose
Sugar (glucose) plays a key role in helping the body absorb water and salt more efficiently. When salt and sugar are dissolved in water, they form an oral rehydration solution (ORS) that aids faster absorption in the intestines. This is why ORS packets used during heatstroke emergencies contain both glucose and electrolytes.

Prevents muscle cramps and fatigue
Salt and sugar together not only rehydrate the body but also help in preventing muscle cramps, dizziness, and fatigue — early signs of heat exhaustion. Sodium supports muscle function, while glucose fuels energy, making this mixture ideal for those feeling drained or weak due to sun exposure.

Stabilizes blood pressure
During a heat stroke, blood pressure may drop due to fluid loss. Salt helps retain water in the body, supporting blood volume and preventing sudden dips in blood pressure. The sugar component provides immediate energy, helping restore circulation and brain function, reducing the risk of fainting or confusion.


Easy-to-make home remedy
To make an effective home remedy for early heatstroke symptoms, mix 1 liter of clean water with 6 teaspoons of sugar and ½ teaspoon of salt. This homemade ORS can be sipped slowly to hydrate the body and restore electrolyte balance. It’s a quick, inexpensive, and scientifically supported solution to manage heat-related health issues.




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