How to Replenish Electrolytes During Illness

Being sick is enough to make a person feel awful and function at half speed. It's important to rest and take care of yourself in order to feel better. It is especially important to replace the precious electrolytes that are lost when a person is ill (especially when the illness causes excessive vomiting or diarrhea). Not doing so could result in prolonged illness and dehydration.

Instructions

1. Avoid any liquids that contain caffeine. While liquid intake is essential during illness, liquids such as coffee or tea can exacerbate dehydration. If drinking tea, make sure it is decaf. Try a nice, decaf herbal tea.

2. Sip on a sports drink. They are designed to re-hydrate and are enriched with electrolytes. This is only suggested for adults, as most pediatricians do not recommend sports drinks for sick children. Do not overdo it. The sugars in sports drinks can sometimes worsen diarrhea.

3. Ask a pharmacist about over-the-counter re-hydration solutions. These are liquids specially designed to safely re-hydrate and replenish the body during illness and mild dehydration. He/she may even recommend a pediatric re-hydration solution.

4. Steer clear of sugary liquids like fruit juices when increasing the intake of liquids. The sugars can make vomiting and diarrhea worse, and provide no beneficial amounts of electrolytes.

5. Mix a packet of electrolyte solution powder with water and drink this solution. These can be useful because of their portability as well as their simple formulas that omit things like excess sugars and artificial colors.

Tips & Warnings

• If dehydration symptoms go beyond mild or moderate, it is important to seek the help of a medical professional immediately.