On the salt thing - I find that sucking on little pieces of coarse pink salt (the kind you use in a grinder) not only tastes good but occupies my mouth for a while along the lines of chewing gum ... or snacking! Much better than quickly downing a glass of salt water.
I also find that vinegar (I make my own), salt and water makes a pleasing broth-ish tasting drink, to which I add no-salt, mag. citrate and lemon juice to as a morning ‘electrolyte’ tonic, or just the salt and vinegar on it’s own if I am on a fast.