Recommended fluids for vomiting and diarrhoea

Question:
Is lemonade a good drink to have if you have diarrhoea or vomiting?

Answer:
Many of us have been given lemonade for an upset stomach, especially as children. But you may be surprised to know that lemonade is not a good choice if you have diarrhoea or vomiting as it can actually make you sicker by increasing your dehydration. That's because lemonade contains lots of sugar and no salt, so you may be robbed of precious fluids as the sugar draws fluid out into the small intestine. The best thing to do if you have diarrhoea of vomiting is to get hold of an oral rehydration solution like Gastrolyte or Hydralyte from the chemist (talk to your chemist about your options). Hydralyte comes in a flavoured ice block form which is often well tolerated by kids. These oral rehydration fluids contain electrolytes, sugars and salts needed to replace those lost with gastroenteritis. Dehydration due to repeated vomiting or diarrhoea can be a problem especially in younger children, so it's a good idea to talk to your doctor for further tips.