Fluid Replacement Drinks

 

Having diarrhea can cause the body to lose fluid and important minerals (electrolytes). Use the recipes below to replace fluids and minerals lost due to diarrhea.

Fluid Replacement Drink #1

Preparation time: 5 minutes.

Serves four.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup orange juice; substitute a non-citrus juice, such as pear nectar, if mouth sores are present; do not use grape juice, which can worsen diarrhea
  • 8 teaspoons sugar
  • ¾ teaspoon baking soda*
  • ½ teaspoon salt*
  • 1 quart (4 cups) water

Instructions

  • Mix all ingredients in a pitcher or large container.
  • Stir thoroughly to combine.
  • Sip slowly throughout the day to replace fluids and minerals lost due to diarrhea.

Per serving: 68 calories; 14 grams of carbohydrates; 2 grams of protein; 0.5 grams of fat; 1 gram of fiber; 449 milligrams of sodium*; 119 milligrams of potassium

* Many people who have diarrhea need extra sodium (salt). However, if you are on a sodium-restricted diet, this recipe may not be right for you. Ask your doctor or dietitian if you are unsure of your dietary sodium limits.

If you are feeling good and eating well, you may not need high calorie eating tips and recipes. Instead, you can try our recipes in the Wellness Nutrition area.


Fluid Replacement Drink #2

Preparation time: 5 minutes.

Serves four.

Ingredients

  • ½ teaspoon salt*
  • ¼ teaspoon potassium chloride (purchase over-the-counter at any pharmacy)
  • 8 teaspoons sugar
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda*
  • 1 quart (4 cups) water

Instructions

  • Mix all ingredients in a pitcher or large container.
  • Stir thoroughly to combine.
  • Sip slowly throughout the day to replace fluids and minerals lost due to diarrhea.

Per serving: 33 calories; 8 grams of carbohydrates; 0 grams of protein; 0 grams of fat; 0 grams of fiber; 448 milligrams of sodium*; 183 milligrams of potassium

* Many people who have diarrhea need extra sodium. However, if you are on a sodium-restricted diet, this recipe may not be right for you. Ask your doctor or dietitian if you are unsure of your dietary sodium limits.

If you are feeling good and eating well, you may not need high calorie eating tips and recipes. Instead, you can try our recipes in the Wellness Nutrition area.

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