How Does ORS Work In Body

ORS(Oral Rehydration Salt):

Oral rehydration salt is a cure for dehydration. It is a beverage made of water, electrolytes and sugar. The aim of oral rehydration salt is to replenish the fluid levels of the body which gets disturbed during dehydration due to diarrhea, vomiting, dengue or other conditions.

Suggested Read: Benefits Of ORS During Dengue

What are the benefits of ORS?

• People often lose large amounts of fluids during fever, vomiting, and diarrhea. ORS can help to retain these lost fluids and restore the body's balance of electrolytes.
• ORS is a simple, affordable, and convenient way to treat dehydration. It is available in powder form, which can be mixed with water, or in pre-packaged sachets and can be administered orally.
• ORS has been extensively tested and is considered safe for use in people of all ages. It is a World Health Organization (WHO) recommended treatment for reduced water levels in the body.
• ORS can help to prevent complications during excessive vomiting and diarrhea by rehydrating the body and restoring electrolyte balance.

Read: 7 Home Remedies To Prevent Diarrhea

How do the ingredients of ORS work in the body? 

ORS contains a balanced combination of glucose, sodium chloride, potassium chloride, and trisodium citrate in specific concentrations which enhances absorption of fluids in the body. 

In the gastrointestinal tract, glucose increases the absorption of fluids. Also, glucose is required for sodium to be properly absorbed. While the potassium chloride in ORS works by preventing loss of potassium and sodium chloride works to prevent excessive secretion of acid and promote the excretion of acid. Some ORS formulations also contain some amount of Zinc and probiotics that work by promoting intestinal absorption of the fluids. 

So ORS is a perfect combination of glucose and sodium replenishing the fluid levels in the body which gets depleted during vomiting and diarrhea.

Read: Top 7 Home Remedies for Vomiting That Actually Work