Swimming is a great way to get exercise and stay healthy, and many people prefer to swim in salt water pools instead of traditional chlorine-treated pools. But, there is a common misconception that salt water pools can raise blood pressure.

This raises the body’s sodium content, which could lead to heart attacks and raise blood pressure in people who already have salt-related hypertension.

In this post, we will explore whether or not this claim is true and what the scientific evidence says.

How Does Salt Water Pools Work?

Firstly, it is important to understand how salt water pools work. Salt water pools use a generator to create chlorine from salt. This means that while they do contain chlorine, they are not as harsh as traditional chlorine-treated pools. Salt water pools also have a lower concentration of chlorine, which can be beneficial for people with sensitive skin or allergies.

Can Saltwater Pools Raise Your Blood Pressure?

Now, let’s talk about the claim that salt water pools can raise blood pressure. There is some evidence to suggest that exposure to high levels of salt can increase blood pressure in some people. However, the salt levels in salt water pools are much lower than the salt levels in the ocean. In fact, the salt levels in salt water pools are similar to the levels of salt found in tears.

One study conducted by the National Institutes of Health found that exposure to high levels of salt in the diet can increase blood pressure, but they did not find a significant link between salt water pool use and blood pressure. Another study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association found that while salt water pools do contain salt, the levels are too low to cause significant changes in blood pressure.

It is worth noting that some individuals may be more sensitive to salt than others. If you have a history of high blood pressure or are concerned about your blood pressure, it is always a good idea to speak with your doctor before using a salt water pool.

Salt Water Pool or Traditional Chlorine-treated Pool

In addition to the question of blood pressure, there are other factors to consider when deciding whether to swim in a salt water pool or a traditional chlorine-treated pool. As mentioned earlier, salt water pools are generally less harsh on the skin and eyes. They also do not have the same strong chlorine smell as traditional pools. However, salt water pools do require more maintenance, and the generator that creates the chlorine can be expensive to replace.

Benefits of Swimming

In fact, swimming in any type of pool can have numerous health benefits. Swimming is a low-impact exercise that can improve cardiovascular health, build strength and endurance, and reduce stress. It can also be a great way to socialize and spend time with friends and family.

If you do decide to swim in a salt water pool, there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, it is important to maintain proper chemical balance in the pool to ensure that the generator is working correctly and to prevent any potential health risks. This may involve regular testing of the water and adding chemicals as needed.

Secondly, it is important to shower before and after swimming to remove any potential contaminants from the skin. This can help prevent skin irritation and other health issues. It is also a good idea to rinse off any swimsuits or other clothing after swimming to remove any residual salt.

Overall, while there is no evidence to suggest that salt water pools can raise blood pressure, it is always a good idea to speak with your doctor before using one if you have any concerns. If you do decide to swim in a salt water pool, be sure to take proper precautions and maintain proper chemical balance in the pool to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while there is some evidence to suggest that exposure to high levels of salt can increase blood pressure in some individuals, the levels of salt in salt water pools are too low to cause significant changes in blood pressure. For most people, swimming in a salt water pool is safe and can even have benefits for sensitive skin and allergies. However, if you have a history of high blood pressure or are concerned about your blood pressure, it is always a good idea to speak with your doctor before using a salt water pool.