Carbohydrate and electrolyte content of some home-available fluids used for oral rehydration in Ghana

Coconut milk and kenkey water (a maize gruel) which are traditionally used for the treatment of diarrhoea in Ghana, were analysed to ascertain their suitability for use in rehydration. The pH, carbohydrate, and electrolyte levels of the food fluids were compared to the recommended UNICEF/WHO ORS to ascertain if these are within physiologically acceptable ranges for the treatment and prevention of dehydration in children with diarrhoea. The carbohydrate and electrolyte levels of kenkey water were found to be comparable to UNICEF/WHO ORS and is suitable for use in rehydration. Coconut milk has the advantages of being fresh, sterile and readily available in most Ghanaian communities. However, use of coconut milk for rehydration cannot be recommended on the basis of its glucose and electrolyte composition.