There’s nothing worse than a dry mouth and a parched throat. Then you look down, see your water bottle empty and there’s nothing to do. It’s even worse after you’ve slammed down about two litres of water then still feel thirsty! For us, it often happens after some home exercise. “My stomach can’t take that much water!” you cry. Well, that’s the beauty of a little thing called oral rehydration sachets, a fast track ticket to hydration. And what a thing that is.
Well, naturally, water is essential for our body to function optimally, and we need to consume it regularly to stay truly healthy. However, many silly or lazy people manage to neglect their water intake which, of course, leads to dehydration. Now, you went to school. That ain’t good.
Why is it essential to stay hydrated?
Well, you might know it’s the case, but you might not know why. Water is crucial for our body to carry out its various functions. Whether its regulating body temperature, transporting nutrients and oxygen or removing waste products, good old water plays a big role. It also lubricates our joints, cushions our organs, aids in digestion, and finally, without adequate water intake, we can experience constipation and other digestive problems. Naturally, it can also improve our cognitive function, mood, and physical performance. So, if you don’t drink water, its probably time to consider some oral rehydration sachets. Failing that, even some electrolytes might help.
What are the risks of becoming dehydrated?
The very sad phenomenon, dehydration, occurs when our body loses more water than it takes in. That leads to a water and electrolyte imbalance, one which isn’t preferable. Mild dehydration can cause symptoms like thirst, dry mouth, and dark urine. However, if left untreated and your thirst unquenched, dehydration can lead to more severe symptoms such as fatigue, dizziness, confusion, and even loss of consciousness. Add to that, it can cause a strain on our kidneys and even increase the risk of kidney stones and urinary tract infections. One to avoid, you would think.
How can oral rehydration sachets help?
In comes the oral rehydration sachets – or they are also known as electrolyte powder or electrolyte tablets. Well, these babies are a quick way to replenish lost fluids and electrolytes in our body. They can be super useful for people who are dehydrated due to illness, exercise, or hot weather. These helpful little sachets contain a balanced combination of glucose and electrolytes such as sodium, potassium, and chloride, which the big guns when maintaining our body’s fluid and electrolyte balance.
Dioralyte sachets, in particular, are a very popular brand of oral rehydration sachets that contain a balanced mix of glucose and electrolytes. They are incredibly simple to use and dissolve quickly in water, making them a rather convenient option for those on-the-go or traveling. And they don’t exactly taste disgusting either, even if they don’t taste delicious. Thankfully, they do still come in various flavors which makes them a little more palatable. Look, it ain’t for everyone but it certainly ain’t bad.
When should you use oral rehydration sachets?
You see, these oral rehydration sachets can be rather beneficial in many situations. You’re ill and feeling down in the dumps. You’re constantly sweating, experiencing diarrhea or vomiting, heaven forbid. Well in comes the rehydration sachets or electrolyte powder. They’ll certainly help you counter and beat that dehydration.
Rehydration sachets and electrolyte drinks are also useful for athletes who need to replenish lost fluids and electrolytes during or after a workout. Perhaps you’re traveling to a hot and humid location and you’re notorious for sweating. Well, stay hydrated and use some oral rehydration sachets to do so.
How quickly do oral rehydration sachets work?
You’d be surprised, some oral rehydration sachets work really quickly to replenish lost fluids and electrolytes in our body. Once you dissolve the sachet in water and drink it, the electrolytes are absorbed into your bloodstream through the liver, and the glucose helps your body absorb the electrolytes.
In just a couple of hours you should start to feel a little better. However, it is essential to keep in mind that oral rehydration sachets are no substitute for medical treatment. If you have severe dehydration or are experiencing other symptoms, it’s probably worth speaking your doctor, naturally.
What happens when you take too many oral rehydration sachets?
Of course, in moderation, oral rehydration sachets are generally safe. But an overconsumption of electrolytes, especially sodium, can lead to hypernatremia, which is a condition where there is too much sodium in your blood. Ironically, symptoms of this condition include greater thirst, confusion, seizures, and in the long run, a coma. Add to that, sometimes taking too many oral rehydration sachets can also cause stomach cramps, bloating, and diarrhoea.
The dangers of taking too many oral rehydration sachets
In some cases, it can be even worse, especially if you have an underlying health condition or are taking other medications. If you have kidney disease or high blood pressure, consuming too many electrolytes can put a strain on your kidneys and make your condition worse. If you take the sachets with diuretics it can also lead to electrolyte imbalances and other adverse effects.
It’s simple, follow the instructions and you’ll probably be fine.
What hydration sachet to use?
Dioralyte Sachets
These babies, dioralyte sachets, are one of the most popular oral rehydration sachets available. A delightful balance of glucose and electrolytes – including sodium, potassium, and chloride – which are essential for maintaining our body’s fluid and electrolyte balance.
Electrolyte Powder
Electrolyte powder is another beautiful option. They come in powder form, you can mix with water, then you get a great, balanced mix of hydration-restoring electrolytes. They are also available in a range of flavors and some famous brands include Gatorade. Delicious.
Electrolyte Drinks
Electrolyte drinks might be one of the most popular. You might have seen them come in ready-to-drink bottles of the blue and red variety. Powerade, Lucozade Sport, you know the ones. These electrolyte are a convenient and tasty way to replenish lost fluids and electrolytes, especially after exercise (or a heavy evening…)
Electrolyte Tablets
Electrolyte tablets are an excellent option for people who are always on the go. Sure, they might not be the best way to do it, especially if you don’t have any water at hand to dissolve them in but its certainly worth a go!
Now it’s time!
So now you know. Oral rehydration sachets can be incredibly effective at replenishing lost fluids and electrolytes in our body. Feeling really tired, hungover, thirsty after exercise or recovering from an illness? Well dioralyte sachets, electrolyte powder and electrolyte tablets might just be your ticket to feeling much better. Remember, dehydration is no laughing matter so best to flush that out as soon as you can. What with, you wonder? Well a glass of water and an oral rehydration sachet of course!
