Oral Rehydration

• Early oral intake aids recovery
• Continue feeding either by breast or 1/2 strength formula + Oral rehydration solutions (ORS) - see below
• Attempt oral rehydration even if vomiting
• Give small amounts of fluid frequently

Oral Rehydration Solutions

• Ideal fluid = glucose 2% to 2.5%, NaCl 75 to 90mEq/L, osmolarity : 310mmol/L) e.g. Gastrolyte

• Otherwise, isotonic solutions of sugar in water
  • Fruit juice (1 part in 4 parts)
  • Ribena (1 part in 20 parts)
  • Cordial (1 part in 16 parts)
  • Lemonade (1 part in 4 parts)
  • Sugar (1 level tsp to 1 cup = 240ml water)