Is sugar necessary for hydration?
Hydration is a vital process, especially in cases of significant fluid loss due to, for example, intense physical activity, episodes of gastroenteritis, diarrhea , or vomiting . In these cases, a significant loss of fluids and mineral salts can occur, requiring rapid and effective hydration . Oral rehydration solutions (ORS) are essential products for rehydrating the body. These drinks contain carbohydrates , also known as sugars, and mineral salts such as sodium, chloride, and potassium, essential to compensate for losses and restore fluid balance . For adults, children, babies, and the elderly, ORS is a convenient and effective oral route to prevent the risk of dehydration. But what role does sugar play in this process? Is it really necessary for effective hydration? Through this article, we will address the topic of sugar, see the importance, in particular, of glucose, in oral rehydration solutions (ORS) and how it contributes to better absorption of water by the body.
The role of sugar in hydration
Contrary to popular belief, carbohydrates in small amounts are key ingredients for effective rehydration . Although we are often encouraged to limit our sugar intake, they play a vital role in the hydration process. Oral rehydration solutions (ORS) for infants are composed of a mixture of carbohydrates and electrolytes (mineral salts such as potassium) in specific proportions. In fact, the presence of sugar in the right proportions promotes more efficient absorption of water by the body. This mechanism is particularly important in cases of diarrhea or vomiting , where it is necessary to rehydrate quickly. They are commercially available in the form of ORS sachets for infants with acute diarrhea.
The importance of rehydration
For your information, dehydration is a common problem in children and adults alike, which can affect our cognitive and physical performance , our mood , and even our immune system . When diarrhea occurs, the body loses a large amount of essential fluids and minerals. Effective rehydration is crucial to replace losses and prevent dehydration and its complications, especially in young children and those at risk. It is essential to drink to help maintain the body's fluid and electrolyte balance and ensure the proper functioning of our body systems.
A physiological mechanism
One important piece of information that should not be overlooked is that the absorption of glucose and water in the small intestine occurs primarily through a mechanism called sodium-glucose cotransport. Glucose (sugar) and sodium (salt) are absorbed together by the cells of the intestinal wall. This will draw water from the intestine into the bloodstream much more efficiently and quickly.
Be careful, the dose of sugar must be very precise . This is why, in infant ORS, it is essential to dilute one sachet in 200 ml of water precisely to ensure the effectiveness of the solution. Too much carbohydrate can detract from hydration in favor of energy intake: this is the principle of energy drinks.
What sugars are included in ORS?
Commercial ORS are known for being products for babies who are prone to diarrhea. However, we are seeing more and more products coming onto the market aimed at hydrating adults. The sugars in these solutions are chosen for their effectiveness in the hydration process and their ease of absorption by the body. Glucose is often preferred because it is directly used in sodium-glucose cotransport. Dextrose is the closest form to glucose, which is why it is used in some ORS for its ability to promote rapid and efficient absorption of electrolytes and water.
Why are sugar-free hydration solutions misleading?
In a context where excessive sugar consumption is often criticized, some brands of oral rehydration solutions (ORS) offer "sugar-free" products. However, this approach can be misleading and less effective for optimal rehydration. Too much sugar can increase dehydration , but the absence of sugar has no effect in optimizing the absorption of water by the body . The key is to get the right amount of sugar to activate the sodium-glucose cotransport mechanism, thus promoting rapid absorption of water and electrolytes .
Although the idea of a sugar-free oral rehydration solution may seem appealing, it goes against the scientific principles of effective rehydration . Oral rehydration solutions containing the appropriate amount of sugar, as recommended by the WHO, are more likely to provide rapid and effective hydration , particularly in cases of dehydration. It is therefore crucial to understand that sugar balance is fundamental to ensuring optimal rehydration in adults.
How to use Hydratis daily?
Our general recommendations
Hydratis is particularly useful for rehydrating people of all ages , effectively rehydrating and avoiding the complications of dehydration. You can use Hydratis daily by taking 2 to 3 lozenges. We recommend adding one lozenge to 250ml of water, to be renewed as needed, up to a maximum of 5 lozenges per day. You can drink small amounts throughout the day! It is also important to adapt the doses according to individual needs (even if it is not a medicine), especially for children, pregnant women, the elderly and diabetics. If necessary, we recommend that you seek the advice of your healthcare professional. We offer several flavors available such as coconut, wild berries, lemon elderflower and many others.
Special cases
Can diabetics consume Hydratis ? First of all, you should know that our lozenges contain a very low amount of carbohydrates (10 times less sugar than a glass of orange juice). The amount of sugar in our product has been studied to be as low as possible in order to avoid an increase in blood sugar while ensuring its effectiveness . Many diabetics use Hydratis in their daily lives. However, as diabetics do not all respond to glucose consumption in the same way, in this context, the advice of a health professional before taking the product is necessary.
Children aged 3 to 10 years can take a maximum of 3 lozenges per day . We recommend establishing a hydration routine with a lozenge at snack time to optimize your children's hydration.
Furthermore, we recommend that people over 50 take 1 Hydratis lozenge in the morning and 1 in the evening , and not consume more than 3 lozenges per day . It is also very interesting to use Hydratis when the risks of dehydration in seniors are increased, such as during diarrheal episodes or in periods of extreme heat. However, people with a history of cardiovascular disease and/or kidney failure or other serious illnesses with certain treatments and medications, as well as people over 70, are advised to seek the advice of a health professional before use.
Glucose is an essential component of effective rehydration solutions because it helps with the complete absorption of water and electrolytes. That's why drinking water with Hydratis daily can help you feel better, faster. In cases of severe diarrhea and vomiting, it is recommended to consult a doctor before starting treatment. Remember to drink regularly ; this will help meet your body's hydration needs!
Give in to temptation and add a Hydratis tablet to your water :)
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