[Dehydration and rehydration of the human body. Physiopathologic and clinical considerations]

Dehydration is a frequent and important problem either occupational or athletic. Equally important is the research for a correct rehydration. The most capable beverages for the rehydration are composed by water, carbohydrates (glucose and its polymers), and electrolytes, because the absorptions of water, glucose and sodium are correlated. Moreover these solutions if properly dosed and balanced do not slacken the gastric emptying and the fluid absorption, they replace part of the exhausted carbohydrates and guarantee a good plasma electrolyte balance. To these benefits can be added the organic "stress" reduction and the physical endurance enhancement.