For children, an often dangerous risk that diarrhea and its symptoms of vomiting poses is dehydration. Due to the immense water loss that is caused by diarrhea, children lose essential minerals such as sodium, potassium, and chloride. These minerals are responsible for the transmission of nerve impulses, muscle contraction and in maintaining the body's fluid balance.
It is important to note that children's bodies, due to their size and other biological factors, is less efficient at storing the body's reserves of water, and are therefore more susceptible to dehydration. So, in lieu of this information, every parent must be armed with the knowledge on how to rehydrate a child efficiently. So which option of hydration drink should you use and how can you prevent dehydration in your child?
Fruit Infused Water
Since your child may be averse to drinking a lot of plain regular water you could try infusing your water with cucumbers, limes (nimbu paani), or mint to make the drink far more tasty and invigorating.
Fruit Juices
Most fruit-juices contain about 85% of water and are a delicious way to ensure hydration. Along with being packed with vitamins and minerals, it provides optimum nutrition with wholesomeness. For example, coconut water is a tremendous form of hydration. However, you must always be aware of the high sugar content that some fruit juices contain, as the high-sugar will then begin to prevent the body to absorb water which can lead to further detrimental effects.
Instantly Hydrating Electrolytes
A simple yet extremely effective solution to dehydration is using this hydration drink, that instantly energizes as well as helps in easing muscle cramps. Loaded with vitamins, antioxidantsantioxidants, and carbohydrates this drink provides energy through the power of hydration. (Note: these effervescent tablets are best suited for children above 8).
Gradually build up fluid intake
Your local pediatrician may suggest a rehydration solution to help replenish lost sodium and potassium in the child. Older children may be suggested to try sports nutrition drinks. A child who wishes to consume something different from plain regular water should try this electrolyte energy drinks, which are instant replenishes of electrolytes with none of the sugar that trouble upset stomachs. If your child is too sick to drink or listless, or shows signs of progressive dehydration such as dry mouth, fewer tears, or urinates less frequently, seek urgent medical attention. Contact your pediatrician immediately.
Make hydration Fun and Interesting
Offer interesting alternatives to hydration such as sucking on some ice or provide them with electrolyte drinks frozen so that the popsicle is enticing to them. Children are a big fan of fizzy drinks and these delicious instant electrolyte energy drinks offer just that. But at the end of the day, do ensure that your child consumes at least some water to oppose the dehydration caused by diarrhea.
Intelligent nutrition that is curated for an active living provides healthy alternatives to several health dilemmas. To begin your health journey with active nutrition.
Daily Wellbeing
Amaan is someone who loves to read and write. He is a writer and editor with passion for daily wellbeing. His focus areas are daily wellbeing and overall health. He writes about health hacks, nutri... Read More
