Is sugar necessary for hydration?

Hydration is a vital process, especially in cases of significant fluid loss due, for example, to 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 called sugars, and mineral salts like sodium, chloride and potassium, essential to compensate for losses and restore water balance . For adults, children, babies and the elderly, ORS is a practical 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 deal with the subject 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 quantities are key ingredients for effective rehydration . Although we are often encouraged to limit our consumption of sugars, they play a vital role in the hydration process. Oral rehydration solutions (ORS) for infants are made from 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 available commercially in the form of ORS sachets for infants with acute diarrhea.

The importance of rehydration

For information, dehydration is a common problem in children as well as adults, 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 compensate for losses and prevent dehydration and its complications, particularly in young children and people at risk. Drinking is essential to help maintain the body's fluid and electrolyte balance and keep our body systems functioning properly.

A physiological mechanism

Information that should not be overlooked is the absorption of glucose and water which, in the small intestine, occurs mainly through a mechanism called sodium-glucose co-transport. Glucose (sugar) and sodium (salt) are absorbed together by cells in 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 ORS for infants, it is essential to dilute one sachet in 200 mL of water precisely in order to guarantee the effectiveness of the solution. Too much carbohydrate can work against hydration in favor of providing energy: this is the principle of energy drinks.

What sugars are included in ORS?

Commercial ORS are known to be products for babies who are prone to diarrhea. However, we are seeing more and more products arriving on the market intended 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 co-transport. Dextrose is the closest form of 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, certain 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 body's absorption of water . The key lies in the right dosage of sugar to activate the sodium-glucose co-transport 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 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 guarantee optimal rehydration in adults.

How to use Hydratis daily?

Our general recommendations

Hydratis is particularly useful for the rehydration of people of all ages , effectively rehydrating and avoiding the complications of dehydration. You can use Hydratis daily by taking 2 to 3 tablets. We advise you to add one tablet to 250ml of water, repeating as often as necessary, up to a maximum of 5 tablets per day. You can definitely drink small amounts throughout the day! It is also important to adapt 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 fruits, lemon elderflower and many others.

Special cases

Can diabetics consume Hydratis ? First of all, you should know that our pastilles contain a very low quantity of carbohydrates (10 times less sugar than a glass of orange juice). The quantity of sugar in our product has been studied to be as low as possible in order to avoid an increase in blood sugar levels while guaranteeing its effectiveness . Many people with diabetes use Hydratis in their daily lives. However, since diabetic individuals do not all respond in the same way to glucose consumption, in this context, the advice of a health professional before taking the product is necessary.

Children aged 3 to 10 can take a maximum of 3 lozenges per day . We recommend that you establish a hydration routine with a tablet 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 invited to seek advice from a professional. health before use.

Glucose is an essential component of effective rehydration solutions because it helps with complete absorption of water and electrolytes. That's why drinking water with Hydratis every day can help you feel better, faster. In case of severe diarrhea and vomiting, it is recommended to consult a doctor before starting treatment. Don't forget to drink regularly , this will help meet the body's hydration needs!

Let yourself be tempted and add a Hydratis tablet to your water :)

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