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 situations, a significant loss of fluids and minerals 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 minerals such as sodium, chloride, and potassium, which are essential for compensating for losses and restoring fluid balance . For adults, children, babies, and the elderly, ORS is a convenient and effective oral route to prevent dehydration. But what role does sugar play in this process? Is it truly necessary for effective hydration? In this article, we will discuss the topic of sugar, examining the importance of glucose in particular in oral rehydration solutions (ORS) and how it contributes to better water absorption by the body.
The role of sugar in hydration
Contrary to popular belief, small amounts of carbohydrates 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 water absorption by the body. This mechanism is particularly important in cases of diarrhea or vomiting , where rapid rehydration is necessary. These solutions are commercially available in sachets as ORS for infants with acute diarrhea.
The importance of rehydration
For your information, dehydration is a common problem in both children and adults, and can affect our cognitive and physical performance , our mood , and even our immune system . In cases of diarrhea, the body loses a significant amount of fluids and essential minerals. Effective rehydration is crucial to compensate for these losses and prevent dehydration and its complications, especially in young children and those at risk. Drinking fluids is essential to help maintain the body's fluid and electrolyte balance and ensure the proper functioning of our bodily systems.
A physiological mechanism
An important point to note is that glucose and water absorption 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 draws water from the intestine into the bloodstream much more efficiently and rapidly.
Caution: the sugar dose must be very precise . Therefore, in infant oral rehydration solutions (ORS), it is essential to dilute one sachet in exactly 200 mL of water to ensure the solution's effectiveness. Too much carbohydrate can compromise hydration in favor of providing energy: this is the principle behind energy drinks.
What sugars are included in ORS?
Commercial oral rehydration solutions (ORS) are known for being products for babies prone to diarrhea. However, we are seeing more and more products on the market designed for adult hydration. 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 form most similar 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 on optimizing water absorption by the body . The key lies in the correct sugar dosage to activate the sodium-glucose cotransport mechanism, thus promoting rapid absorption of water and electrolytes .
While the idea of a sugar-free oral rehydration solution may seem appealing, it contradicts 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 , especially in cases of dehydration. Therefore, it is crucial to understand that sugar balance is fundamental to ensuring optimal rehydration in adults.
How to use Hydratis on a daily basis?
Our general recommendations
Hydratis is particularly useful for rehydrating people of all ages , effectively rehydrating and preventing the complications of dehydration. You can use Hydratis daily by taking 2 to 3 tablets. We recommend adding one tablet to 250ml of water, repeating as needed, up to a maximum of 5 tablets per day. You can certainly drink small amounts throughout the day! It is also important to adjust the dosage according to individual needs (even though it is not a medication), especially for children, pregnant women, the elderly, and diabetics. If needed, we recommend consulting your healthcare professional. We offer several flavors such as coconut, forest fruits, lemon elderflower, and many more.
Special cases
Can diabetics consume Hydratis ? First, it's important to 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 carefully calculated to be as low as possible to avoid a spike in blood sugar while still ensuring its effectiveness . Many people with diabetes use Hydratis daily. However, since not all individuals with diabetes respond the same way to glucose, consulting a healthcare professional before taking the product is recommended.
Children aged 3 to 10 can take a maximum of 3 tablets per day . We recommend establishing a hydration routine with one tablet at snack time to optimize your children's hydration.
Furthermore, we recommend that people over 50 take one Hydratis lozenge in the morning and one in the evening , and not consume more than three lozenges per day . Hydratis is also highly beneficial when the risk of dehydration in seniors is increased, such as during episodes of diarrhea or periods of intense heat. However, individuals with a history of cardiovascular disease and/or kidney failure or other serious illnesses requiring certain treatments and medications, as well as those over 70, are advised to consult a healthcare professional before use.
Glucose is a key component of effective rehydration solutions because it aids in 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 any treatment. Remember to drink regularly ; this will help meet your body's hydration needs!
Go ahead and add a Hydratis tablet to your water :)
The products are available directly on our website hydratis.co
