Diet and Nutrition

Alternative Treatments for Dehydration

Alternative Treatments for Dehydration

There is a situation in which body water content can decrease to a level below what is permissible. In such a case, the equilibrium of minerals in our usual bodily fluids is disturbed. This situation leads to dehydration, in which somebody loses fluids from the body excessively as compared to the rate of consumption.

Dehydration is also called hypohydration, and it can affect the body's metabolism. Various factors lead to dehydration, including diarrhea, frequent urination, sweating excessively and vomiting.

Have a question aboutDehydration?Ask a doctor now

So as to avoid mild dehydration from becoming severe, there is need to take measures without hesitation. If precautions are not taken, you could need urgent medical attention.

Home Dehydration Remedies

Water

Drinking a lot of water is one of the best ways to prevent dehydration. If one has been diagnosed with mild dehydration, he/she should drink a lot of water to keep it from progressing. In a case of severe dehydration, intravenous methods are used to transmit fluids to the body of that person. Some people are more easily affected by dehydration - such as athletes and those suffering from diabetes - and should drink at least two liters of water on daily basis.

Fresh Fruits & Vegetables

Fruits which have a high water content - such as bananas, strawberries and watermelons - are the best for helping dehydration. Those who have been diagnosed with either mild or severe dehydration should ensure they consume fruits with a high water content so that the fluid level in their body returns to normal. Preparing juice from these fruits is also advisable. Adding some salt or sugar to the juice will help regulate levels of electrolytes in the body.

Watery vegetables can also help. Vegetables such as zucchini, tomatoes and cucumbers are some examples of what can be helpful. Preparing fresh salads from these ingredients would also aid in restoring fluids to the body.

Coconut Water

Coconut water is rich with electrolytes, and can also help in doing away with the signs of dehydration. Coconut water is a natural drink that can be of help to victims since it contains a high content of potassium as well as iron, which are essential in the restoration of electrolyte balance in the body. Fresh coconut water is preferred over packaged.

Salt

As seen from above, exercising excessively can lead to a lot of sweating, which can then lead to mild dehydration. People who have been engaging in rigorous activities and suffering from dehydration should be given salty foods, such as salted nuts and cracker biscuits. They should also make sure that they drink a lot of fresh water. The electrolytes in the body will be balanced after consuming some salt.

Buttermilk

Freshly prepared buttermilk can be one of the best cures for dehydration, bringing an electrolyte imbalance back to normal. 

Epsom Bath

Though not well known, taking a bath in Epsom salts can be helpful to people suffering from dehydration. 10 to 15 minutes is recommended. There is magnesium in the salts that will be absorbed by the body, and it will do away with symptoms of dehydration.