What water to drink when diarrhea?: An Essential Hydration Guide

Dehydration caused by diarrhea can be a serious health risk, particularly for children and older adults. Proper rehydration is critical, making it essential to understand what water to drink when diarrhea strikes to replenish lost fluids and electrolytes safely and effectively.

Quick Summary

Diarrhea leads to significant loss of fluids and electrolytes, necessitating prompt rehydration. Key fluids include oral rehydration solutions (ORS), clear broths, and electrolyte-enhanced water, while avoiding high-sugar, caffeinated, and alcoholic drinks is crucial for recovery.

Key Points

• ORS is the Gold Standard: Oral Rehydration Solutions (ORS) are specifically formulated with the correct balance of salts and sugar for maximum fluid and electrolyte absorption during diarrhea.

• Combine Water with Electrolytes: Plain water is necessary but not enough on its own. Supplement with electrolyte-rich fluids like broths or diluted sports drinks to replenish lost minerals.

• Avoid High-Sugar Drinks: Sodas, undiluted juices, and energy drinks are high in sugar, which can draw water into the intestines and worsen diarrhea.

• Say No to Caffeine and Alcohol: Both caffeine and alcohol are diuretics that promote water loss and can exacerbate dehydration, so they should be avoided.

• Sip, Don't Gulp: Drink fluids in small, frequent sips rather than large quantities at once to prevent upsetting your stomach and promoting vomiting.

• Boil Water if Traveling: In regions with questionable water safety, use boiled and cooled or bottled water to prevent infection from pathogens.

• Consider Other Safe Options: Clear, fat-free broths and potassium-rich coconut water are also good choices for rehydration.

The Dangers of Dehydration During Diarrhea

Diarrhea is characterized by loose, watery stools and can be caused by infections, food poisoning, or other digestive issues. Each watery bowel movement leads to a loss of not just water, but also essential minerals called electrolytes, including sodium, potassium, and chloride. These electrolytes are vital for nerve and muscle function, maintaining fluid balance, and many other bodily processes. When their levels drop significantly, severe dehydration can occur, potentially leading to serious complications like kidney problems, seizures, or low blood pressure if not treated promptly. This risk is especially high for young children, the elderly, and individuals with compromised immune systems. Therefore, focusing on the right hydration strategy is the most important step in managing diarrhea.

The Best Liquids for Safe Rehydration

To effectively combat dehydration, you need a solution that replaces both fluid and electrolytes. While plain water is essential, it's often not enough on its own. The best approach combines clear fluids with electrolyte-rich options.

Oral Rehydration Solutions (ORS)

Commercial oral rehydration solutions like Pedialyte are considered the gold standard for treating dehydration from diarrhea. These products contain a balanced mixture of clean water, sugar (glucose), and salts (electrolytes) designed for optimal absorption by the body. The specific ratio of ingredients in an ORS allows the small intestine to absorb fluids more efficiently. You can purchase them at most pharmacies in liquid, powder, or frozen pop forms.

Homemade Oral Rehydration Drink

In situations where commercial ORS is unavailable, a homemade solution can be used as a temporary measure, but precision is key. A common recipe involves mixing salt, sugar, and clean water. For example, dissolve half a teaspoon of salt and six teaspoons of sugar in one liter of boiled and cooled water. However, it is important to follow the measurements accurately, as an incorrect ratio could worsen the condition.

Broths and Clear Juices

Clear, fat-free broths, such as chicken or vegetable, are excellent sources of sodium, which is lost during diarrhea. They are easy to digest and can provide comfort. For potassium, consider diluted, pulp-free juices like apple juice or flat ginger ale, but always ensure they are not high in sugar, as this can exacerbate diarrhea.

Coconut Water and Sports Drinks

Coconut water is a natural source of electrolytes, particularly potassium, and can be an effective rehydration option for mild cases. Just be aware that it can be lower in sodium compared to commercial ORS, so adding a pinch of salt can improve its effectiveness. Sports drinks like Gatorade also contain electrolytes but are often high in sugar, which can pull water into the gut and worsen diarrhea. If you opt for a sports drink, diluting it with water can help reduce the sugar concentration.

What to Avoid When Dehydrated

Just as important as knowing what to drink is knowing what to avoid. Certain beverages can irritate the digestive tract or worsen dehydration.

• High-Sugar Drinks: Avoid sugary sodas, energy drinks, and undiluted fruit juices. The high sugar content can pull water into the intestine, worsening diarrhea.
• Caffeine and Alcohol: These are diuretics, meaning they increase urine output and can further dehydrate the body. Steer clear of coffee, tea, and alcoholic beverages.
• Carbonated Beverages: The carbonation can cause gas and bloating, leading to increased discomfort.
• Dairy Products: Diarrhea can temporarily cause lactose intolerance. Avoiding milk, cheese, and other dairy products until your symptoms subside is a good idea.

Comparison of Rehydration Fluids

Fluid	Electrolyte Content	Sugar Content	Ease of Digestion	Notes
Oral Rehydration Solution (ORS)	High (Balanced)	Low (Balanced)	Excellent	Specifically formulated for rehydration. Most effective.
Plain Water	None	None	Excellent	Good for hydration but needs to be supplemented with electrolytes.
Clear Broth	High Sodium	None	Excellent	Replaces salt lost. Comforting and easy to tolerate.
Coconut Water	High Potassium	Moderate	Good	Natural electrolytes, but low in sodium. Can be supplemented with salt.
Sports Drink	Moderate	High	Fair	High sugar can worsen diarrhea. Dilute with water if using.

Hydration Strategy and Gradual Reintroduction

When you have diarrhea, the key is to rehydrate slowly and steadily. Don't chug large amounts of liquid at once, as this can trigger more vomiting or stomach upset. Instead, take small, frequent sips throughout the day.

Once you feel you can tolerate food, follow the BRAT diet: Bananas, Rice, Applesauce, and Toast. These bland, low-fiber foods are easy to digest and can help firm up stools. Gradually reintroduce other foods once your symptoms improve. It is important to continue consuming nutrient-rich foods, including breast milk for infants, to aid in recovery.

Conclusion

Understanding what water to drink when diarrhea is a critical component of managing the condition and preventing dangerous dehydration. While plain water is necessary, it is not sufficient for replacing lost electrolytes. Oral Rehydration Solutions (ORS) offer the most balanced and effective approach to rehydration. Alternatives like clear broths and diluted coconut water can also be helpful, but high-sugar, caffeinated, and alcoholic drinks should be avoided entirely. By focusing on a consistent and gentle hydration strategy, you can help your body recover faster. If symptoms are severe, persistent, or accompanied by other concerning signs, such as fever or blood in the stool, it is crucial to seek medical advice. You can find additional information and guidance on the treatment of diarrhea from authoritative sources like the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases.

Note: For travel, particularly to areas with potentially unsafe water sources, only drink bottled water or water that has been boiled first to avoid contamination.

References

• National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK): Treatment of Diarrhea.
• Hydratis: Dehydration in case of diarrhea: what to do?
• World Health Organization (WHO): Diarrhoeal disease.

Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is plain water enough for rehydration during diarrhea?

Plain water is crucial for hydration but is not sufficient on its own, as diarrhea causes a significant loss of electrolytes like sodium and potassium. You should also consume electrolyte-rich fluids to maintain proper body function.

What is an oral rehydration solution (ORS)?

An Oral Rehydration Solution (ORS) is a mixture of clean water, sugar, and salts that is balanced to help the body absorb fluids and replace lost electrolytes most effectively. Commercial ORS is widely available, and homemade versions can be created with caution.

Can I drink sports drinks like Gatorade for dehydration from diarrhea?

While sports drinks contain electrolytes, they are often high in sugar, which can make diarrhea worse. If you use them, it's best to dilute them with water to lower the sugar concentration.

Are homemade ORS safe to use?

Homemade ORS recipes are available, but they must be prepared with precise measurements to be safe and effective. Errors in mixing can worsen dehydration. It is often safer to opt for commercially available solutions.

Should I avoid caffeine when I have diarrhea?

Yes, you should avoid caffeinated beverages like coffee and some teas. Caffeine is a diuretic and can increase fluid loss, exacerbating dehydration.

Is coconut water a good option for dehydration?

Yes, coconut water is a natural source of potassium and can be beneficial for rehydration in mild cases of diarrhea. Because it is low in sodium, adding a pinch of salt can improve its electrolyte balance.

How often should I drink fluids when I have diarrhea?

You should take small, frequent sips of fluids throughout the day to rehydrate gently. Drinking large amounts at once can overwhelm your system and lead to more stomach upset.