How do you do salt and sugar solution for rehydration?

Oral rehydration solution (ORS) has been estimated to decrease the risk of death from diarrhea by up to 93%, highlighting its life-saving potential. This simple mixture of salt, sugar, and water effectively replenishes lost fluids and electrolytes in the body, providing a crucial remedy for dehydration.

Quick Summary

A proper salt and sugar solution, known as oral rehydration solution (ORS), helps combat dehydration by replenishing lost fluids and essential electrolytes. The glucose aids the absorption of sodium and water in the intestines. Correct measurements are critical to ensure the solution is safe and effective for rehydration after illness or exercise.

Key Points

• Recipe for ORS: Mix one liter of safe water with half a teaspoon of salt and six teaspoons of sugar to make a standard Oral Rehydration Solution.

• Accuracy is Key: Use precise, level measurements with standard spoons to avoid making the solution ineffective or potentially harmful.

• Safety for Children: Oral rehydration solutions are safe for children but require careful monitoring; avoid high-sugar drinks.

• Proper Storage: Homemade ORS must be stored in the refrigerator and discarded after 24 hours to ensure safety and potency.

• Homemade vs. Commercial: Commercial ORS sachets offer convenience and precise dosing, while homemade versions are a low-cost emergency option [2.5.2, Table].

• Mechanism of Action: The specific salt-to-sugar ratio facilitates the absorption of water and sodium in the intestine, a process more efficient than drinking plain water alone.

• Seek Medical Advice: Consult a healthcare provider for infants, young children, or if signs of severe dehydration, such as confusion or dizziness, appear.

What is a salt and sugar solution?

A salt and sugar solution, commonly called an Oral Rehydration Solution (ORS), is a medically proven blend of water, salts, and sugar used to prevent and treat dehydration. The World Health Organization (WHO) has long advocated for its use, especially in cases of dehydration caused by diarrhea and vomiting. The science behind its effectiveness is the principle of co-transport: a specific ratio of glucose (sugar) to sodium (salt) allows for enhanced water absorption in the small intestine, something plain water cannot achieve as effectively when electrolytes are depleted.

Unlike plain water, which can dilute the body's remaining electrolytes, a properly prepared ORS replenishes them, restoring the body's delicate fluid balance. It is a simple, cost-effective, and highly accessible treatment that can be prepared at home with basic kitchen ingredients or purchased in pre-packaged sachets.

The WHO standard recipe for homemade ORS

For anyone looking to prepare a safe and effective oral rehydration solution at home, adhering to the WHO-recommended formula is critical. The right balance ensures optimal fluid absorption and prevents adverse effects from incorrect concentrations.

Ingredients:

• 1 liter of safe drinking water (boiled and cooled is best).
• 1/2 teaspoon of table salt (sodium chloride).
• 6 level teaspoons of sugar (sucrose).

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Gather ingredients: Ensure you have one liter of safe water, half a teaspoon of salt, and six teaspoons of sugar. Use standard measuring spoons, not silverware, for accuracy.
2. Boil and cool the water: Boil the water for at least one minute and let it cool down before mixing. This ensures it's safe and sterile.
3. Mix ingredients: Pour the salt and sugar into the clean, one-liter container of cooled water.
4. Stir thoroughly: Mix the solution well until both the salt and sugar are completely dissolved. You should not see any visible granules.
5. Store safely: Cover the solution and store it in the refrigerator. Any unused solution should be discarded after 24 hours.

The crucial importance of correct ratios

The effectiveness and safety of a homemade ORS depend entirely on using the correct proportions of salt and sugar. Deviating from the recommended formula can be ineffective or even harmful.

• Too much sugar: A solution with too much sugar can have a high osmolarity. This can worsen diarrhea by drawing more water from the body into the intestines, counteracting the rehydration process.
• Too much salt: Excessive salt can lead to hypernatremia, a condition of dangerously high sodium levels in the blood. This is particularly dangerous for infants and children and can cause seizures or other severe health complications.
• Too little of either: An insufficiently concentrated solution will not have the proper balance for optimal absorption, rendering it less effective for rehydration.

Always use standard, level measuring spoons to ensure the solution is properly mixed. Avoid making assumptions with a “pinch” of salt or an approximate amount of sugar.

Homemade ORS vs. commercial ORS sachets

While the homemade solution is a reliable emergency option, commercially produced ORS sachets offer certain advantages. The right choice depends on the situation, availability, and specific needs.

Feature	Homemade ORS	Commercial ORS Sachets
Cost	Very low, using common kitchen ingredients.	Higher upfront cost, but pre-portioned.
Accuracy	Prone to measurement errors if not careful.	Precisely measured for optimal osmolarity.
Convenience	Requires preparation and measuring tools.	Just mix the powder with the specified amount of water.
Availability	Can be made immediately with household items.	Must be purchased from a pharmacy or clinic.
Stability	Only lasts 24 hours after preparation.	Powder sachets have a long shelf life.
Additives	Purely water, salt, and sugar. Optional natural flavors.	May contain added flavors, potassium, and zinc.

When and how to use the solution

Oral rehydration solution is most effective for treating mild to moderate dehydration caused by various conditions.

• For diarrhea and vomiting: Sip small amounts frequently, especially after each episode of fluid loss. This helps to replace lost fluids and electrolytes before dehydration becomes severe.
• For heat exhaustion: Drink the solution regularly during intense exercise or exposure to high temperatures to prevent dehydration caused by excessive sweating.
• For children: Always follow a doctor's advice, but generally, give small sips frequently. Do not substitute homemade ORS for medical care if your child shows signs of severe dehydration, such as lethargy, no tears, or very infrequent urination.

Final considerations and storage

Remember these key points for safely using your salt and sugar solution:

• Storage: Store the solution in a clean, covered container in the refrigerator and discard any leftovers after 24 hours to prevent bacterial growth.
• Flavoring: While the basic solution may not taste pleasant, you can add a small amount of non-sweetened juice (e.g., orange juice) or a mashed banana to improve the taste and add potassium. Avoid highly sugary or carbonated drinks.
• When to seek medical help: If symptoms of severe dehydration, such as confusion, dizziness that doesn't subside, or a fast heart rate, occur, seek immediate medical attention.
• Professional guidance: Always consult a healthcare professional before using ORS, especially for infants, young children, or individuals with pre-existing conditions like kidney disease.

Using a properly prepared salt and sugar solution is a powerful and accessible tool for managing dehydration. By following the recommended guidelines for mixing and consumption, you can effectively rehydrate and support the body's recovery process.

For more detailed information on the global recommendations, please consult the World Health Organization (WHO)'s guidelines on oral rehydration salts.

Conclusion

Knowing how to do a salt and sugar solution correctly is an essential first-aid skill for managing dehydration. This simple, affordable, and effective oral rehydration solution (ORS) helps replenish fluids and electrolytes lost due to illness or excessive sweating. Strict adherence to the proper recipe is paramount to ensure its safety and effectiveness, as incorrect measurements can be harmful. While homemade ORS is a great emergency resource, it's vital to follow safe preparation and storage practices. In cases of severe dehydration, or if symptoms persist, seeking professional medical advice is always the safest course of action.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the correct ratio for a homemade salt and sugar solution?

For one liter of water, the correct ratio is a half teaspoon of salt and six level teaspoons of sugar, according to the WHO-recommended formula.

Can I use a commercial sports drink instead of a homemade ORS?

While sports drinks contain electrolytes, they often have excessive sugar and do not contain the optimal ratio of salt and sugar for rehydration during illness, which can worsen diarrhea.

How long can I store homemade oral rehydration solution?

Homemade ORS should be stored in the refrigerator and any unused portion must be discarded after 24 hours to prevent bacterial contamination.

Why is boiling the water necessary before mixing the solution?

Boiling the water is recommended to ensure it is safe and sterile for drinking, especially when the ORS is used to treat illness or for someone with a compromised system.

What are the dangers of mixing the ORS incorrectly?

Mixing the solution incorrectly can lead to negative side effects. Too much sugar can worsen dehydration, while too much salt can cause salt toxicity, particularly dangerous for infants and children.

When should I seek medical help instead of using homemade ORS?

You should seek medical attention if you experience signs of severe dehydration, such as confusion, persistent dizziness, a fast heart rate, or if the person is an infant or has a serious underlying condition.

Can I add flavor to the salt and sugar solution?

Yes, you can add a small amount of non-sweetened fruit juice, like orange juice, or a mashed banana for potassium and flavor. Avoid sugary drinks like soda.