Salt Tablets Not Okay For Athletes

Athletes should never take salt tablets because they:

Don't help performance
Contribute to dehydration [1] by causing extra water to enter the stomach and drawing it away from other body tissues,
Increase the risk of heat illness [2]; and
Irritate the stomach lining and can cause nausea

Heat cramps are likely caused by losses of water and electrolytes [3] (salt and potassium) from excessive sweating. The priority for any athlete should be to replace that water and electrolytes, such as by drinking a sports drink. [4]

Teaser title:

Salt Tablets A Bad Idea For Athletes

Teaser text:

Salt tablets are a bad idea, and here's why.

Links:
[1] https://momsteam.com/node/273
[2] https://momsteam.com/node/276
[3] https://momsteam.com/node/865
[4] https://momsteam.com/node/280
[5] https://momsteam.com/nutrition/sports-hydration/heat-illnesses/warning-signs-and-symptoms-of-dehydration-kids-can-become-dehydrated-in-cold-weather
[6] https://momsteam.com/health-safety/replace-electrolytes-lost-during-sports-with-sports-drinks
[7] https://momsteam.com/health-safety/dehydration-signs-and-symptoms
[8] https://momsteam.com/nutrition/sports-nutrition-basics/extra-salt-most-youth-athletes-dont-need