We always get questions on rehydrating a sick child without resorting to the artificial additives in Pedialyte alternatives. Any qualified pediatrician will tell you this is the preferred beverage for your child suffering from stomach aches.
If you’re unfamiliar with Pedialyte, it’s a hydration treatment used to counteract the symptoms of diseases like the flu (such as vomiting or diarrhea). I’m not suggesting this drink would not supply your sick child with vital nutrients. But what about the excessive additives such as artificial flavors, sweeteners, and color?
We’ve already covered some concerning details regarding the chemical dyes that need an alert label in many countries outside the United States. Still, there aren’t many suitable rehydration substitutes that don’t include them.
Gatorade or other sports beverages sometimes come up as another electrolyte remedy. However, the contents include artificial sweeteners and dyes. When I approached a pediatrician’s office for a recommendation, they had no clue what we talked about because we tried to eliminate the dubiously added additives in Pedialyte.
As this is a matter of serious health endangerment. As a result, we wanted to contact a local board-certified pediatrician specializing in integrative medicine. So, we could get more information about quick rehydration options.
Dr. Alex Davis informed me that an option exists. And it is a popular formula by the World Health Organization (WHO) called Oral Rehydration Salts/Solution (N-ORS). In so many terms, he said he developed this approach for those living in developing nations who cannot sprint down the street to the closest store or pharmacy and pick up some Pedialyte.
After describing it to us in this manner, it made more sense that an appropriate, simple substitute for Pedialyte might exist. Thus, we returned to our daily pediatrician’s office and directly inquired if ORS will properly replenish our children after a period of dehydration, to which they responded “yes.”
It’s interesting how much influence drug companies have on our physicians these days. Pedialyte is manufactured by Abbott, one of the world’s largest ten pharmaceutical corporations. We want to share this N-ORS edition of “Homemade Pedialyte” with you today, just with one caution.
This recipe is recommended for children over the age of one. Kids without high fever and with normal kidney function can also take this recipe. Additionally, as always, take your own physician’s recommendation over something you read online about the Pedialyte alternative!
Homemade Pedialyte Recipe
- One quart distilled water
- Two tbsp sugar
- One tsp salt
Note: you may be concerned your child may find this drink too bland. Try incorporating a splash of orange juice, coconut water, or other natural flavors.
Additionally, if you boil the water first, the sugar and salt will dissolve more easily. Further, it would be best to dump this formula into freezer pop molds to create your Pedialyte popsicles.
We have asked Dr. Davis concerning the possibility of rehydrating with coconut water, as it does produce certain natural electrolytes, but the problem is a deficiency of sodium.
Your body needs sodium to assist in retaining the liquid; otherwise, it would simply pass through you. You might apply 1/4 teaspoon table salt and some orange juice to the coconut water. This will ensure your formula contains enough sodium and sugar.
You can keep your child in good health with these healthy recipes for kids.
