Aquarius and diarrhea: what the ads don't tell you

Aquarius and diarrhea: what the ads don't tell you

Every so often the idea resurfaces that a can of Aquarius can help stop diarrhea. Nothing could be further from the truth. This sports drink is designed to replace salts and fluids after exercise, not to treat intestinal infections. In fact, its high sugar content can worsen symptoms by drawing water into the intestine.

The myth of Aquarius as an oral rehydration solution

The confusion comes from comparing it with oral rehydration solutions, which have a specific composition of glucose and electrolytes. Aquarius contains more sugar and less sodium than needed, and lacks the agents that help absorb fluids in a damaged intestine. Those who recommend it as a home remedy usually cite personal experience, but the evidence doesn't back it up. A video circulating on social media shows a supposed expert promoting it with gestures that look more like a Muppet; hard to take the source seriously.

Alternatives that actually work

Against the myth, the classic remedies remain the most effective: cooked rice, grated apple, toast or crackers. The soluble fiber in these foods absorbs excess water and firms up stools. Ginger, thanks to its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial action, also helps. And if hydration is needed, better water with a bit of lemon and a pinch of salt, or directly a pharmacy oral rehydration solution. Probiotics, such as Danup, can restore gut flora after the episode, but they are not an emergency treatment.

The danger of trinc the wrong advice

On forums and social media everything circulates, from Okey shakes to vodka as supposed remedies. Alcohol, besides dehydrating, irritates the intestinal lining. The serious part is that someone with prolonged or severe diarrhea who self-medicates with soft drinks or alcoholic beverages may delay medical care and become dangerously dehydrated. Diarrhea is not treated with hunches: if it lasts more than two days or is accompanied by fever, it's time to see a doctor.

Why do we keep believing that a soft drink can beat what medicine takes days to cure? Maybe the answer lies in how easy it is to grab a can rather than read the leaflet.