BestReviews is reader-supported and may earn an affiliate commission. Details.
Replace minerals
Electrolytes are minerals such as sodium, potassium and chloride. They can carry an electric charge and help your body function properly. Electrolytes are in your blood, urine and sweat. If your body becomes dehydrated, your electrolyte levels drop. When this happens, a whole host of problems can begin ranging from muscle cramps to irregular heartbeats. Because it only contains trace amounts of electrolytes, water doesn’t solve the problems created by dehydration. You also have to replace your electrolytes. To do this, you need a beverage that has a balance of water and electrolytes, such as Pedialyte.
Shop this article: Pedialyte Electrolyte Solution, Pedialyte AdvancedCare Plus Electrolyte Drink and Pedialyte Electrolyte Powder.
What is in Pedialyte?
Pedialyte is a rehydration drink. Besides water, it contains sodium, potassium and chloride. These are the essential electrolytes that your body needs when it gets dehydrated. For energy, it contains dextrose. There is also citric acid in Pedialyte, along with natural and artificial flavoring.
Who and what is Pedialyte for?
Pedialyte has suffered a little from effective marketing and doctors’ recommendations. This has led to a belief that Pedialyte is only for sick children. While helping kids stay hydrated during the stomach flu is one of Pedialyte’s primary purposes, it can also help adults when they get sick. It’s also useful to athletes of all ages for rehydration after intense workouts.
Pedialyte vs. Gatorade
Pedialyte and Gatorade both rehydrate the body and contain similar ingredients. Where they differ is the amount of each ingredient. Pedialyte contains higher amounts of sodium and potassium than Gatorade. It also contains less sugar than Gatorade in all but the sugar-free variety. Additionally, some Pedialyte contains zinc, which helps support the immune system.
How to use Pedialyte
Pedialyte has balanced ratios of sugars and electrolytes. Take it according to the directions on the packaging. If you are under a doctor’s care, those directions may supersede the printed instructions. Do not dilute Pedialyte with fruit juices, sodas or water. Adding other fluids will lessen its effectiveness. Adding sweetened fluids could also make stomach flu symptoms worse.
As effective as Pedialyte is, it’s not recommended as a daily drink. The ingredients that make it a top choice for rehydration can be too much for regular use. In other words, if water is adequate, that should be your first choice for staying hydrated.
Does Pedialyte have any side effects?
Some may experience side effects when taking Pedialyte. The most common is mild nausea and vomiting. Often, you can avoid these side effects by drinking slowly. If they do not diminish, contact your doctor.
Some of the more serious but rare side effects include dizziness, weakness, swelling in the ankles and feet, mood changes and seizures. Report these to your doctor promptly.
Additionally, some may have a serious allergic reaction to Pedialyte. Seek medical attention immediately if you have any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction. This includes rashes, itching, swelling, severe dizziness or trouble breathing.
There are different types of Pedialyte
There are over a dozen different types of Pedialyte for different uses. Some of these include:
- Prebiotic Pedialyte promotes digestive health.
- Sports Pedialyte aids athletes who engage in intense physical training.
- Organic and Zero-Sugar Pedialyte are great for the health-conscious.
- Plain- or Effervescent-Powder Pedialyte is good for people on the go.
- Pedialyte Freezer Pops let the drink melt slowly in your mouth.
FAQ
Does Pedialyte stop vomiting and diarrhea?
A. No, but it does help prevent dehydration that can occur as a result of these symptoms.
Does Pedialyte cure hangovers?
A. No, but it may help you feel less miserable by replacing the fluids, carbohydrates and electrolytes lost when you drink alcohol.
Can I freeze Pedialyte?
A. No. If you want that, use Pedialyte Freezer Pops.
Can I give Pedialyte to my dog?
A. No. The high level of sodium can be harmful and the sugars can cause problems in dogs with underlying conditions. If your dog is sick enough for you to consider medication, call your veterinarian first.
Top Pedialyte products
Pedialyte Electrolyte Solution
This is the classic Pedialyte solution, available in unflavored and mixed fruit options.
Sold by Amazon
Pedialyte AdvancedCare Plus Electrolyte Drink
Pedialyte AdvancedCare Plus has 33% more electrolytes than the classic solution. It also contains prebiotics for digestive health and zinc for immune support. AdvancedCare Plus is available in Berry Frost, Cherry Pomegranate, Iced Grape and Kiwi Berry Mist flavors.
Sold by Amazon
Pedialyte Sport Electrolyte Drink
If you are getting dehydrated due to exercise, this is the option for you. It has five key electrolytes that the body needs for muscle support and faster rehydration. It is available in Fruit Punch and Lemon Lime flavors.
Sold by Amazon
This powdered Pedialyte mixes with your water in a disposable or reusable water bottle. It contains 24 packets of Grape, Cherry, Strawberry Lemonade and Orange flavors.
Sold by Amazon
Sometimes, the best way to get the hydration you need is with a freeze pop. This pack of 16 pops contains Grape, Blue Raspberry, Cherry and Orange flavors.
Sold by Amazon
Want to shop the best products at the best prices? Check out Daily Deals from BestReviews.
Sign up here to receive the BestReviews weekly newsletter for useful advice on new products and noteworthy deals.
Allen Foster writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.
Copyright 2023 BestReviews, a Nexstar company. All rights reserved.