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Assessing the palatability of oral rehydration solutions in school-aged children: a randomized crossover trial

Stephen B Freedman1, Dennis Cho, Kathy Boutis

  • 1The Hospital for Sick Children, University of Toronto, 555 University Ave, Toronto, ON M5G 1X8, Canada. stephen.freedman@sickkids.ca

Archives of Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine
|August 4, 2010
PubMed

Insights

Children found sucralose-sweetened oral rehydration solutions (ORS) more palatable than rice-based ORS. Pedialyte and Pediatric Electrolyte were preferred over Enfalyte, indicating better taste for pediatric hydration.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Emergency Medicine
  • Clinical Nutrition
  • Taste Perception

Background:

  • Oral rehydration solutions (ORS) are crucial for managing dehydration in children.
  • Palatability significantly impacts ORS adherence and effectiveness.
  • Limited comparative data exists on the taste profiles of different ORS formulations.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To compare the palatability of three distinct oral rehydration solutions in children.
  • To evaluate children's preference and willingness to consume different ORS formulations.

Main Methods:

  • A prospective, blinded, randomized, 3-period, 3-treatment crossover trial was conducted.
  • Sixty-six children (aged 5-10 years) participated in the study.
  • Taste was assessed using a visual analog scale, alongside volume consumed and future willingness to drink.

Main Results:

  • Sucralose-sweetened ORS (Pedialyte and Pediatric Electrolyte) were significantly more palatable than a rice-based ORS (Enfalyte).
  • Pedialyte was the most favored solution (53%), followed by Pediatric Electrolyte (39%), and Enfalyte (8%).
  • No significant differences were observed in the volume consumed across the solutions.

Conclusions:

  • Sucralose-sweetened ORS demonstrate superior palatability in pediatric populations compared to rice-based alternatives.
  • Taste preference is a critical factor influencing ORS consumption in children.
  • Findings support the use of more palatable ORS formulations to improve hydration therapy outcomes.
Abstract

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