What are the benefits of drinking hot water mixed with salt and sugar?

Dec 10, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Huang Yuhong
Introduction
Under normal circumstances, dissolving salt and sugar in hot water for drinking offers various benefits, including replenishing fluids and electrolytes, rapidly restoring energy, relieving mild dehydration discomfort, reducing post-exercise fatigue, and alleviating symptoms of low blood sugar on an empty stomach. However, when consuming this mixture, one should pay attention to contraindications and precautions, control the amounts of salt and sugar used, avoid excessive intake, and particularly exercise caution if suffering from hypertension or diabetes.

Under normal circumstances, drinking salt mixed with sugar in hot water offers various benefits, mainly including replenishing fluids and electrolytes, rapidly restoring energy, relieving mild dehydration discomfort, reducing post-exercise fatigue, and alleviating symptoms of low blood sugar on an empty stomach. The details are as follows:

1. Replenishing fluids and electrolytes: Salt contains sodium, while sugar promotes the absorption of sodium. When consumed together in hot water, they can quickly restore the body’s fluid and electrolyte levels—especially beneficial after excessive sweating to help maintain the body's fluid and electrolyte balance.

2. Rapid energy replenishment: Sugar is rapidly absorbed and utilized by the body, providing quick energy. This drink is suitable when feeling hungry or weak, helping to swiftly alleviate fatigue and restore physical strength.

3. Relieving mild dehydration discomfort: For mild dehydration caused by diarrhea, vomiting, or heavy sweating, drinking salt and sugar in hot water can effectively relieve symptoms such as thirst, dizziness, and weakness, aiding the body’s recovery.

4. Reducing post-exercise fatigue: After exercise, the body loses significant amounts of energy, fluids, and electrolytes through sweat. Consuming this beverage helps promptly replenish these losses, reducing muscle soreness and fatigue following physical activity.

5. Alleviating symptoms of fasting-induced hypoglycemia: When experiencing symptoms of low blood sugar such as dizziness, palpitations, and cold sweats on an empty stomach, this drink helps quickly raise blood glucose levels, while salt supports basic metabolic functions, thereby easing discomfort.

When consuming this mixture, it is important to be aware of contraindications and precautions. The amounts of salt and sugar should be controlled to avoid excessive intake. Individuals with hypertension or diabetes should consume it cautiously to ensure safety and appropriateness.