Relation of body mass index and waist-to-height ratio to cardiovascular disease risk factors in children and adolescents: the Bogalusa Heart Study. Freedman DS, Kahn HS, Mei Z, Grummer-Strawn LM, Dietz WH, Srinivasan SR, Berenson GS. [PubMed-indexed for MEDLINE].
Smelling salts release ammonia (NH3) gas, which triggers an inhalation reflex (that is, causes the muscles that control breathing to work faster) by irritating the mucous membranes of the nose and lungs. Although these hypothetical mechanisms have been discussed, it is likely that smelling salts are not effective.
Some mineral salts are also used as anti-caking agents in food products. They help improve the texture of certain foods as well, especially the meats. They are used in food products like beer, soft drinks, frizzy drinks, confectionery items, ice cream, baked goods, jelly, cheese, breads and canned foods.