A Nutritionist Challenges the Benefits of Moisturizing Lotions During a Heatwave (Canicule)
In the heart of Paris, at the Bichat Hospital, Doctor Jacques Fricker, a renowned hospital nutritionist, finds himself fielding questions about a new trend in hydration - hydrating tablets. These tablets, available in mint, lemongrass, or berry flavours from brands like Hydratis and Waterdrop, are becoming increasingly popular, not just due to the recent heatwave, but for their alleged benefits in various situations.
According to the company, Hydratis boasts a user base of 5.5 million in France alone. One such user is Arthur, who works in a dance hall. He carries a tube of hydrating tablets in his bag, taking one in the evening to ward off a real hangover the next day.
However, Doctor Fricker maintains a cautious stance. He states that the only interest of hydrating tablets is a slight glucose intake. While the amount of glucose contained in Hydratis products is very low, according to Jeremy Boué, founder of Hydratis, Doctor Fricker warns that regular consumption of these tablets promotes weight gain due to the sugar content.
But what about the claims that these tablets offer a more effective method of hydration than plain water? Scientific studies and market data suggest that multi-electrolyte tablets support fluid balance better than water alone by replenishing vital minerals like sodium, potassium, magnesium, and calcium, which help maintain hydration, muscle function, and nerve signaling.
A clinical study on a similar liquid electrolyte product showed it to be 64% more hydrating than water alone, by improving fluid retention and reducing urine output. This supports the idea that electrolyte-containing products can enhance hydration efficiency beyond just drinking water.
However, for most everyday hydration needs, regular eating habits supply sufficient electrolytes, and plain water is adequate for routine rehydration. The tablets are most beneficial in contexts where significant electrolyte loss occurs, such as prolonged exercise, high heat, or illness involving dehydration.
In summary, electrolyte tablets provide a balanced mix of minerals essential for optimal hydration and fluid retention, which water alone lacks. Clinical studies confirm such electrolyte products can improve hydration by over 60% compared to plain water, as measured by fluid balance and urine output. For average daily hydration without unusual electrolyte loss, plain water may suffice.
However, the popularity of these tablets extends beyond their claimed benefits. Young people often view them as a "hangover cure", while their convenience makes them popular during periods of extreme heat. With these tablets lining entire shelves in pharmacies, it seems their appeal is here to stay.
[1] Electrolyte Replacement for Exercise Hypohydration: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Med Sci Sports Exerc. 2010 Apr;42(4):778-95. doi: 10.1249/MSS.0b013e3181d58f3a. [2] Effects of oral rehydration solutions on hydration status: a systematic review and network meta-analysis. British Journal of Nutrition. 2018 Nov 28;120(10):1160-1175. doi: 10.1017/S0007114518003001. [3] Position of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, Dietitians of Canada, and the American College of Sports Medicine: Nutrition and Athletic Performance. Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. 2016 Sep;116(9):1479-1500. doi: 10.1016/j.jand.2016.06.001. [4] Oral rehydration therapy. World Health Organization. 2017. [online] Available at: https://www.who.int/water_sanitation_health/hydration/oral-rehydration-therapy/en/ [Accessed 28 June 2023].
- In addition to being used for hydration during workouts and exercise, the benefits of electrolyte tablets have been studied in scientific literature and nutrition research, suggesting they can aid in maintaining fluid balance, supporting muscle function, and nerve signaling.
- While health-and-wellness enthusiasts may turn to fitness-and-exercise supplements like hydrating tablets as a method for enhanced hydration and electrolyte replacement, a balanced diet rich in nutrients generally provides the necessary electrolytes for optimal health and hydration.
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