1. Introduction
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A recent study suggests that diluted fruit juice, especially apple juice, could serve as an effective treatment for mild cases of gastroenteritis in children. Researchers from the University of Calgary, Canada, found that apple juice for gastroenteritis relief may even be more beneficial than some over-the-counter rehydration solutions commonly recommended for kids.
2. Study Overview
The research involved 647 children aged between six months and five years who were suffering from mild dehydration caused by gastroenteritis. Participants were divided into two groups:
- One group received half-strength apple juice, followed by their preferred drink.
- The other group was given an apple-flavoured electrolyte solution, the standard medical approach for such conditions.
3. Key Findings
The results revealed a clear difference between the two groups:
- 25% of children who drank the electrolyte solution required additional medical care.
- Only 17% of those given diluted apple juice needed further treatment.
Study leader Dr Stephen Freedman stated that these findings question the common practice of giving children electrolyte maintenance solutions at the onset of stomach pain and diarrhoea. The study, published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA), also noted that children who drank apple juice required fewer intravenous fluids and were less likely to be hospitalised.
4. Expert Opinions
Dr Freedman explained that many electrolyte drinks have a taste young children find unpleasant, making them difficult to consume. He suggested that “dilute apple juice may be an appropriate and palatable alternative for children with mild dehydration caused by gastroenteritis.”
a. Supportive Views
Child nutritionist Jenny Edelstein from Brain Food London praised the study’s findings, calling them “very useful for parents.” She emphasised that children can become dehydrated quickly when suffering from gastroenteritis, often leading to emergency visits. “This research gives parents a practical home solution that may prevent hospital treatment,” she said. Edelstein also recommended offering diluted apple juice during mild tummy upsets, especially while travelling.
b. Calls for More Research
Another expert, Charlotte Stirling-Reed from SR Nutrition, agreed that the results are promising but urged caution. “While this study suggests that diluted apple juice may be an effective alternative, more research is needed,” she said. She also reminded parents that fruit juice should always be diluted and given with meals to protect children’s teeth.
5. NHS Response
The NHS responded cautiously to the study’s conclusions. It noted that the research did not include infants under six months, children with severe dehydration, or those with other medical complications. According to the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE), parents should still rely on rehydration solutions if dehydration is suspected and seek medical advice if symptoms persist.
The NHS also warned that in some cases, fruit juice may worsen diarrhoea, and should therefore be avoided in more serious conditions.
6. Conclusion
While diluted apple juice appears to be a simple and accessible way to ease mild dehydration caused by gastroenteritis, experts stress that it should only be used for mild cases. Parents are encouraged to consult healthcare professionals before replacing standard rehydration solutions, especially if symptoms do not improve.
