Current controversies in oral rehydration solution formulation

Although the importance of oral rehydration therapy for acute diarrhea is unquestioned, controversy remains about the preparation and formulation of the oral rehydration solutions (ORS). There is disagreement about whether the ORS should be homemade or commercially prepared, what constitutes the optimal sodium content, what base (if any) should be present in the ORS, and whether other nutrients can be substituted entirely or in part for glucose. These issues are discussed and recommendations for the ideal ORS are presented.