Gatorade

[steffie]

Hi everyone:

Mom's doc recommended Gatorade because her potassium level is low. However, I read a post from someone on this site that Gatorade has a great of sugar in it. Thanks to whoever posted this information because I had no idea! I plan to start giving mom watermelon juice instead. If you have a juicer, it is easy to make and during this time of year, watermelon is sweet and reasonably priced in the midwest.

Steffie

[Knitter]

I am diabetic, but I used Gatorade when I was really sick. I did not find it was a problem for me. When the diarrhea is that bad, you need some extra sugar to give you the strength to fight back.

[Bobbie]

Gatorade also helps replenish electrolytes such as potassium. I don't know if watermelon juice would. There might be a sugar-free Gatorade; call the toll-free # on the bottle.

[cindym]

My internist told me to drink gingerale through a straw and it would be less likely to cause nausea than gatorade. I did this and it really did make a difference. The reason for drinking from the straw is to fool your body into believing you are swallowing only your own saliva! I thought this was crazy but it works. I have dealt with horrible nausea and therefore had problems with the gatorade which not only made me nauseated but also caused GERD problems. Gingerale really works for me!

[steffie]

Cindym:

But does gingerale help replace potassium and other electrolytes?
Steffie

[Bobbie]

No. I don't think so. Call the doc. or read the bottle. The doc. can also prescribe potassium supplements.

[cindym]

Steffie- It replaces sugar in your system and fluids. I have a problem with potassium going too low but internist insisted that if I could remain hydrated that the potassium most likely would be okay. I guess he was right because for the last several relapses I did just fine with gingerale. In the past I could not keep enough gatorade down to help me. At least with the gingerale- it stayed down and kept me out of the hospital.

[pam2738]

I asked my doctor about Gatorade & he approved it but suggested diluting it half & half with water.

Pam