WHO-recommended ORS for safe and effective hydration, say experts

HEAL Foundation organised a conference on selecting ‘WHO-recommended ORS for safe and effective hydration vs high sugar drinks’ to raise awareness on the importance of ORS for dehydration, especially in children where diarrhoea ranks as the third leading cause of  mortality.

Despite Oral Rehydration Salts (ORS) being an essential medicine, recent NEHS-5 data  shows that only 60.6 per cent of children with diarrhoea receive ORS, highlighting the need for increased  awareness and proper utilisation.

Dr Vibhor Borkar, Director, Paediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Liver Transplant, Nanavati Max Superspecialty Hosptial, emphasised, “Using incorrect salt or sugar formulations can have detrimental consequences. Proper dehydration management requires the intake of a precise balance of water and electrolytes. Using  improper homemade solutions or other high-sugar-containing drinks can disrupt this balance,  leading to serious health risks such as worsening dehydration and, in extreme cases, even death.” 

Dr Lalit Verma, Lead and Senior Consultant, Department of Paediatric Gastroenterology and Liver  Transplant, Gleneagles Hospital, stresses the importance of making informed choices  explaining,” Glucose-sodium and potassium ratio necessary for rapid absorption of water and electrolytes, are indispensable for treating dehydration.  Therefore, opting for WHO-approved formulations  over sugary-drinks not intended for dehydration treatment is vital for maintaining overall health,  especially children’s health, during the summer heat.”