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"Pink" diarrhoea: osmotic diarrhoea from a sorbitol-containing vitamin C supplement

R E Hill, K R Kamath

    The Medical Journal of Australia
    |May 1, 1982
    PubMed

    Insights

    Sorbitol in vitamin C supplements caused prolonged diarrhea in seven children. Doctors recommend dietary changes and sorbitol exclusion for unexplained watery diarrhea in kids.

    Area of Science:

    • Pediatric Gastroenterology
    • Clinical Nutrition
    • Toxicology

    Background:

    • Protracted diarrhea is a common pediatric concern requiring thorough investigation.
    • Identifying dietary triggers is crucial for managing chronic gastrointestinal issues in children.

    Observation:

    • Seven pediatric patients presented with prolonged watery diarrhea.
    • Sorbitol, administered via vitamin C supplements, was identified as the causative agent in all cases.
    • Pink staining of napkins, linked to cochineal dye in supplements, was noted in five patients.

    Findings:

    • Sorbitol is a sole cause of protracted diarrhea in susceptible children.
    • Vitamin C supplements containing sorbitol and cochineal dye can induce chronic diarrhea and distinctive napkin staining.
    • Dietary history is key in diagnosing sorbitol-induced diarrhea.

    Implications:

    • Clinicians should consider sorbitol in vitamin C supplements when evaluating pediatric chronic diarrhea.
    • Excluding sorbitol from the diet is a recommended initial step before extensive diagnostic workups.
    • Awareness of hidden sorbitol sources in supplements can prevent unnecessary medical interventions.

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