HOW TO PREPARE HOMEMADE ORS: 3 RECIPES AND INSTRUCTIONS
By Nmami Agarwal 29-Jul 2023 Reading Time: 11 Mins
ORS (Oral Rehydration Solution) is a vital mixture of water, salt, and sugar that is essential for hydrating the body when it has lost fluids due to diarrhea, vomiting, or excessive sweating while it is available in the market, making your own ORS at home is simple and cost-effective. Whether you’re out camping, have a sick family member, or just want to stay hydrated, having an ORS recipe on hand is a smart idea. We’ll be sharing three easy ORS recipes that you can make at home with ingredients that are easily available in your kitchen. These recipes are designed to replenish lost fluids, maintain electrolyte balance, and keep you hydrated. So, let’s dive in and learn how to make your own ORS at home with these simple recipes!
What is ORS and why is it important?
ORS stands for Oral Rehydration Solution and it is a mixture of water, salts, and sugar that helps to replenish the fluids and electrolytes lost by the body during dehydration. ORS is important because dehydration can be a serious condition that can cause fatigue, weakness, and even death if left untreated. In fact, dehydration is one of the leading causes of death in children worldwide but ORS is a fast and effective way to treat dehydration, and it can be used by anyone, including children and adults and it is especially important to use ORS during hot weather or after exercising, as these activities can cause the body to lose fluids and electrolytes quickly. While ORS is available in stores and pharmacies, it can also be made at home with just a few simple ingredients and making your own ORS is a great way to stay hydrated and save money at the same time. In the following sections, we will discuss three easy DIY ORS recipes that you can make at home.
Recipe 1: Simple ORS recipe using salt, sugar, and water
One of the easiest DIY ORS recipes is made from just three ingredients: salt, sugar, and water. All of these ingredients are readily available in most households, making this a convenient and cost-effective solution. To make this recipe, you’ll need 6 teaspoons of sugar, half a teaspoon of salt, and 1 liter of clean water. Mix the ingredients together until they are fully dissolved in the water, and your homemade ORS is ready! And this recipe works by replenishing the body with essential minerals and fluids that are lost due to dehydration. Sugar helps to increase the absorption rate of sodium and water in the intestines, while salt restores the body’s electrolyte balance also it’s important to note that this recipe is not a complete replacement for commercially available ORS solutions. However, in emergency situations where these solutions are not available, this simple recipe can be a lifesaver it’s also a great option for those who prefer natural remedies or want to avoid artificial ingredients in their diet.
Recipe 2: ORS recipe using fruit juices and coconut water
For making this ORS drink at home which is a delicious and refreshing option that uses fruit juices and coconut water well known for its hydrating benefits and is a natural source of electrolytes, making it a great ingredient for an ORS recipe. The fruit juices used in this recipe provide natural sugars that help to replenish energy levels and keep you hydrated.
To make this ORS recipe, you’ll need a cup of coconut water and fruit juice (orange, pineapple, or mango work well) add half teaspoon of salt and 2 tablespoons of honey simply mix all the ingredients together until the salt and honey have dissolved. You can adjust the measurements of the ingredients according to your taste preferences and the plus point is that this ORS recipe can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 48 hours. This recipe is a great alternative to store-bought ORS solutions that tend to be loaded with artificial flavors and sugars. By making your own ORS at home, you have control over the ingredients and the quality of the final product.
Recipe 3: ORS recipe using ginger and honey
This is an ORS recipe that uses ginger and honey as the key ingredients and ginger has natural anti-inflammatory properties and helps in digestion, while honey is a natural humectant that helps in retaining moisture. This recipe is perfect for those who prefer a slightly sweeter taste and don’t want to rely on sugar-loaded energy drinks.
To make this recipe, you will need a single teaspoon of ginger juice and two teaspoons of honey, add salt of half teaspoon then 1 liter of water. In a small bowl, mix the ginger juice, honey, and salt together and pour the mixture into a pitcher containing 1 liter of water. Stir well until all the ingredients are dissolved make the ORS cool down in the refrigerator or serve it over ice. This recipe is not only easy to make, but it also provides all the necessary electrolytes that our body needs to stay hydrated moreover ginger adds a refreshing twist to the taste while honey takes away the salty flavor of the ORS. You can also adjust the amount of honey according to your taste preference.
Tips for staying hydrated throughout the day
Staying hydrated throughout the day is crucial for maintaining good health. Here are some tips to help you stay hydrated:
1. Drink water regularly: Drinking water is the most effective way to stay hydrated. Also don’t forget to keep a bottle of water with you at all times and take regular sips throughout the day.
2. Eat hydrating foods: Certain foods are naturally hydrating and can help you stay hydrated throughout the day such as watermelon, cucumber, and oranges are great options.
3. Avoid sugary and caffeinated drinks: Drinks like soda and coffee can actually dehydrate you, so it’s best to avoid them or at least limit your intake.
4. Set reminders: If you have trouble remembering to drink water regularly, set reminders on your phone or computer to remind you to take a sip.
5. Use a straw: Using a straw can help you drink more water without even realizing it. It’s a simple trick that can make a big difference.
Conclusion and final thoughts on the importance of hydration
In conclusion, hydration is crucial to our overall health and well-being. It’s essential to drink enough water to keep our bodies functioning properly, but sometimes we need a little extra help when we’re dehydrated. That’s where ORS comes in. By replenishing lost fluids and electrolytes, ORS can help us stay hydrated and healthy. The good news is that you don’t need to rely on store-bought ORS solutions with just a few simple ingredients, you can make your own ORS at home. The recipes we’ve shared are easy to make and use ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen.