Salty Meals Don't Boost Thirst, Says Science

More salt does not automatically lead to more thirst, according to a new research in the University Of Haifa.

"Based on the notion that the consumption of salt increases thirst, the concern has arisen that it also leads to an increased consumption of sugary drinks. However, our study found little support for the assumption that salt invariably increases drinking," said Micah Leshem from the University of Haifa, according to medindia.

Leshem explained that by drinking beverages with lots of calories that are either alcoholic or sugary, increasing the ingestion of salty foods leads to eating more calories, resulting in gaining more fat. The study involved 58 participants, with Leshem exploring the role of salt in solid foods. Members were also asked to taste different types of nuts---either sugary candied nuts, salted nuts or those that have no additives.

Interestingly, eating salty nuts did not increase thirst more than eating candied nuts, or those that had no added flavors.

Besides the scientific implications regarding the balance of salts and fluids in our bodies and diet, Prof. Leshem suggested, with a pinch of salt, that "based on the findings, tavern owners can reduce the amount of salt in their bar snacks without compromising their drink sales or customer health," according to sciencedaily.