CAN YOU TAKE ORAL REHYDRATION SOLUTION IF YOU HAVE DIABETES?
Even as the temperatures rise and heat wave grips most parts of the country, the demand for Oral Rehydration Solution or ORS surges.
According to doctors, ORS is a one-stop solution for dehydration which happens when your body loses more fluid than you consume. Dehydration can happen for many reasons, including excessive diarrhoea or vomiting, and if left untreated, it can be life-threatening.
It happens because your body relies on water to perform basic functions.
Related News |However, for those with diabetes, it is always confusion whether they should drink the mix or not, since the beverage is made with sugar, water, and electrolytes – specifically potassium and sodium.
How does ORS work?
The goal of ORS is to replenish the body’s fluid levels. It helps maximize fluid absorption in your gastrointestinal tract, which relies on sodium-glucose cotransporters, or SGLTs, that carry proteins in the intestinal cells.Cotransporters help move substances across membranes.
Related News |Can those with diabetes have ORS?
ORS is packed with glucose and electrolytes, which help replenish fluids and balance electrolyte levels. Also, diabetics need to monitor their blood sugar levels closely while consuming ORS.Doctors say for those on insulin or oral hypoglycemic medications, to maintain their hydration status, it can be important to have ORS, depending on the severity of dehydration.
Also, if you want to avoid the glucose content in ORS, there are other various alternatives, which include sugar-free electrolyte drinks or packets especially made for people with diabetes or even salted homemade lemon water solution.
These products are formulated to provide electrolytes without added sugars, helping to prevent spikes in blood sugar levels.
Treating dehydration in diabetes
Excessive thirst is an initial symptom of diabetes and mild dehydration. At least 2.5-3 liters of daily fluids must be consumed by you per your requirements and physical activity.Even though water is good, doctors say electrolytes should be added, which may be lost from the body through dehydration.
Other sources of fluids to rehydrate your body include:
- Infused water
- Buttermilk
- Curds
- Unsweetened yogurt
- Limewater
- Coconut water
- Green tea
- Homemade vegetable soups and broths
Potential risk factors
According to doctors, ORS is designed to normalize electrolyte levels. However, if you have not prepared the solution correctly, it can cause salt toxicity – a condition known as hypernatremia. Possible side effects include:- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Weakness
- Loss of appetite
- Confusion
- Severe thirst
- Kidney damage
Who should avoid ORS?
You should use oral rehydration solutions with caution if you:- Have a kidney disorder
- Are severely diabetic
- Suffer from heart failure
- Take heart disease or blood pressure medications