Oral rehydration therapy
Oral rehydration therapy (ORT) is a simple, life-saving solution used to prevent and treat dehydration, particularly from diarrhea. It's a carefully balanced mixture of water, salts, and sugar, designed to be absorbed quickly by the body. While not a traditional 'dish' in the culinary sense, it is a fundamental medical nutrition intervention developed for global health.
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
ORT is primarily a source of quick-digesting carbohydrates (from sugar or glucose) for energy and essential electrolytes like sodium and potassium for fluid balance. A standard 1-liter serving contains roughly 50-75 grams of sugar and provides around 200-300 calories, with negligible fat and protein.
Nutrition breakdown
| Calories | 250 kcal |
| Protein | 0 g |
| Carbs | 62.5 g |
| Fat | 0 g |
| Fiber | 0 g |
| Sugar | 62.5 g |
| Sodium | 1750 mg |
| Sodium | 1750 mg |
| Potassium | 450 mg |
| Chloride | 1250 mg |
| Glucose | 62.5 g |
| Citrate | 290 mg |
Per 1 liter (1000 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
💡 What's interesting
The genius of ORT lies in its scientific simplicity and profound impact; it leverages the sodium-glucose co-transport mechanism in the gut to maximize water absorption, a principle that has saved tens of millions of lives worldwide. It is often referred to as potentially the most important medical advance of the 20th century.
