The salt water flush is a practice involving the rapid consumption of a concentrated mixture of non-iodized salt and water, performed to induce a powerful laxative effect. This procedure is generally not supported by mainstream medicine and is associated with various alternative health protocols, such as fasting or “detox” routines like the Master Cleanse. Advocates believe the flush quickly cleanses the colon, eliminating accumulated waste material from the digestive tract.
The Preparation and Execution
The standard procedure calls for specific measurements to maximize the intended laxative effect. The typical recipe involves dissolving two teaspoons of non-iodized salt into one quart (approximately four cups or one liter) of warm, filtered water. It is important to use a pure salt, such as Celtic sea salt or pink Himalayan salt, and to avoid common iodized table salt.
The water should be warmed to body temperature, which helps the salt dissolve completely. The full quart of the saline solution must be consumed quickly, ideally within a few minutes, on an empty stomach, usually first thing in the morning. Individuals are advised to remain near a restroom, as the strong laxative effect generally begins within 30 minutes to an hour, resulting in multiple, urgent bowel movements.
The Intended Physiological Action
The theory behind the flush’s effectiveness is rooted in the principle of osmosis, a natural biological process involving the movement of water across a membrane. When consumed, the salt-water mixture creates a hypertonic solution, meaning it has a much higher concentration of salt than the fluid within the body’s cells. This high sodium concentration is designed to bypass the small intestine without being absorbed into the bloodstream.
As this concentrated solution travels through the digestive system, the body attempts to balance the salt concentration. Water is drawn from the surrounding tissues and blood vessels directly into the intestinal lumen. This influx of fluid significantly increases the volume and liquidity of the contents in the colon, stimulating rapid peristalsis. The result is a forced, liquid bowel movement that proponents claim flushes the entire colon clean and provides temporary relief for acute constipation.
Health Risks and Contraindications
The intentional consumption of such a large quantity of salt carries significant health risks, primarily due to the potential for excessive sodium absorption. A major concern is electrolyte imbalance, specifically hypernatremia (elevated sodium levels in the blood), which can occur if too much salt is absorbed. This rapid sodium overload can cause serious symptoms, including severe dehydration, confusion, muscle spasms, and seizures, as it disrupts the balance of fluids and electrolytes.
The procedure also places considerable strain on the body’s regulatory systems, particularly the kidneys and the cardiovascular system. Individuals with pre-existing conditions are strongly advised against attempting the flush, including those with high blood pressure, kidney disease, or heart conditions, as the sudden surge of sodium and fluid volume can exacerbate these health issues. Furthermore, the quick and complete evacuation of the bowels can lead to severe dehydration and the loss of beneficial gut bacteria. The practice is also contraindicated for pregnant individuals and those with gastrointestinal disorders such as inflammatory bowel disease or ulcers.