Summer comes with a blanket of flowers, fresh leaves and enormous fruits. However, hot weather can make you dehydrated resulting in the loss of electrolytes. To gain the lost electrolytes back, Oral Rehydration Solution (ORS) is recommended. Its consumption is recommended during diarrhoea, dehydration, hangover, fever, and so on. It contains good amounts of sugar and salts which help in gaining lost electrolytes. But can people with diabetes take it?
Studies have shown that people with diabetes are more prone to dehydration and amid summers, dehydration can get worse. So how can diabetes sufferers hydrate themselves as ORS contains glucose and whether it is safe for them to consume it.
To learn whether people who have diabetes can consume ORS, OnlyMyHealth team interacted with Sanchi Tiwari, Nutritionist, Lord’s Mark Biotech.
Explaining why exactly ORS is to be taken, Tiwari said, “Oral rehydration solutions (ORS) are used to treat dehydration caused by diarrhoea, a common illness in travellers. Unlike other fluids, the ratio of the ingredients in an ORS matches what the body needs to recover from a diarrheal illness.”
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Can Diabetics Drink ORS?
As per Tiwari, ORS if given in recommended quantity, it is safe for diabetic patients to take it. According to a study published by the National Institute of Health, Oral rehydration solutions containing glucose, rice powder, can be safely administered to diabetic patients with acute diarrhoea and some dehydration.
However, it is important to note that people with diabetes should opt for ORS during diarrhoea and dehydration. It is important to ask your healthcare provider if you can take it or not to avoid any complications. Also, diabetes patients should regularly check their blood sugar levels when consuming ORS.
Ways Of Hydration In Diabetes
As per experts and doctors, consuming ORS is safe for diabetic patients but in a limited quantity. Given that people with diabetes are more prone to dehydration, how can they hydrate themselves and replenish lost electrolytes?
Tiwari said, “Electrolyte imbalance is commonly present in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. The cause is usually multifactorial, but usually results from insulin deficiency in diabetic ketoacidosis and hyperglycaemia.”
Adding further, she said that dehydration can cause a spike in blood pressure, which can lead to diabetic ketoacidosis. “The best way to stay hydrated is to drink enough water each day. Women should aim to consume about 1.6 litres of water while men should try to drink at least 2 litres of water per day,” Tiwari said. More water should be consumed if you’re exercising strenuously or in warm environments that cause you to sweat.
Apart from drinking water, you can also opt for various electrolyte alternatives available, which are sugar-free specially made for people with diabetes.
Conclusion
Concluding, Tiwari said, “To help keep electrolytes balanced and working efficiently, add natural enhancements to your water. One of the best options is to add a little fresh lemon or lime.” Your doctor may also recommend electrolyte supplements if you suffer from chronic deficiencies. It is advisable for diabetic patients to always seek your doctor’s suggestion or advice before consuming over-the-counter remedies.
(Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. We advise you to consult your doctor before opting for ORS if you have diabetes.)