From the Guidelines
Liquid IV drinks are generally not necessary for most healthy individuals, but can be beneficial in specific situations like treating dehydration from diarrhea, vomiting, or excessive sweating, as they provide essential electrolytes for rapid rehydration 1. When considering the use of Liquid IV drinks, it's essential to weigh their benefits against their drawbacks, including high sugar content and artificial ingredients. For individuals who require rapid rehydration, Liquid IV drinks can be a convenient option, but it's crucial to follow package directions and be mindful of the added sugar in your daily intake. In cases of severe dehydration, shock, or altered mental status, isotonic intravenous fluids such as lactated Ringer’s and normal saline solution should be administered as the first line of treatment, rather than Liquid IV drinks 1. The American Academy of Pediatrics and the World Health Organization recommend oral rehydration solutions (ORS) as the primary treatment for mild to moderate dehydration in children and adults, which can be a more effective and cost-efficient alternative to Liquid IV drinks 1. For routine hydration, plain water remains the healthiest and most cost-effective option, and individuals should prioritize a balanced diet and regular water intake to stay adequately hydrated. In specific situations where Liquid IV drinks are necessary, it's essential to choose a product with minimal added sugar and artificial ingredients, and to follow the recommended dosage to avoid excessive sugar intake. Ultimately, the decision to use Liquid IV drinks should be made on a case-by-case basis, taking into account the individual's specific health needs and circumstances, and under the guidance of a healthcare provider when possible 1.
From the Research
Liquid IV Drinks: Good or Bad
- The provided studies do not directly address the topic of liquid IV drinks, but rather focus on oral rehydration solutions (ORS) and their use in treating dehydration and diarrheal illnesses 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
- According to the studies, ORS are effective in preventing and treating dehydration, and are recommended for use in patients with diarrheal illnesses, as well as for athletes and individuals engaging in vigorous exercise 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
- The studies suggest that ORS should contain specific amounts of sodium and carbohydrates to be effective, and that excessive consumption of sodium-free fluids should be avoided to prevent exercise-induced hyponatremia 2.
- While the studies do not specifically address liquid IV drinks, they do provide guidance on the importance of proper hydration and electrolyte balance, which may be relevant to the use of liquid IV drinks 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
- It is worth noting that the studies emphasize the importance of using ORS that are similar to the World Health Organization's reduced osmolarity ORS, and that other liquids, such as sport drinks and juice, are not recommended for patients with severe dehydration 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.