Not the solution for dehydration

FOR those suffering from this year’s virulent flu season, experts are warning that sports drinks are not sufficient for rehydrating the body.

“Sports beverages may be fine for healthy persons following intensive exercise, but they are not recommended for those with fever, diarrhoea or vomiting,” said John D. Bowman from Texas A&M Irma Lerma Rangel College of Pharmacy.

“Children and older people are at greater risk of severe symptoms from dehydration, and using sports beverages, chicken soup or other home remedies may actually worsen the illness.”

Instead, Bowman recommends the oral rehydration salts (ORS) solution, a scientifically sound treatment for intestinal flu and dehydration also recommended by the World Health Organisation (WHO).

Most people will probably also have the ingredients needed stocked in their kitchen cabinet, making it an easy and effective at-home remedy – simply combine one-quart water with a half teaspoon of salt and six level teaspoons of sugar. As an option, a half cup of orange juice or a mashed banana can be added for potassium.

Bowman noted: “What people call the stomach flu is not the same as the respiratory flu, but both can result in dehydration, which makes one feel worse.

“The use of oral rehydration is a general recommendation for any ill person with mild to moderate dehydration, and its use might delay or even prevent the need for acute care.” – AFP-Relaxnews