Buying ORS for Kids? Pediatrician Dr. Priyanka Jain Shares What Parents Must Check

Every parent worries when their child suffers from loose motions, vomiting, or dehydration. In such moments, ORS (Oral Rehydration Solution) becomes one of the most important lifesaving remedies. However, not every product labeled as ORS is safe or effective. According to Pediatrician Dr. Priyanka Jain, parents must be cautious and informed while choosing ORS for Kids, as the wrong choice can do more harm than good.

Why ORS Is So Important for Children

Diarrhea and vomiting cause rapid loss of fluids and essential salts from a child’s body. This can quickly lead to dehydration, especially in infants and young children. Genuine ORS for Kids works by restoring lost electrolytes such as sodium, potassium, and chloride, helping the body absorb water efficiently. When used correctly, ORS can reduce the risk of severe dehydration and prevent hospitalization.

India still loses thousands of children to diarrhea every year. Medical studies show that proper use of genuine ORS can reduce child deaths by more than 90%, making it one of the most effective and affordable treatments in pediatric care.

Signs That Your Child Needs ORS

Pediatrician Dr. Priyanka Jain explains that parents should start ORS if a child shows symptoms like:

• Frequent loose stools

• Vomiting or nausea

• Dry mouth or cracked lips

• Reduced urination or dark yellow urine

• Dizziness or unusual tiredness

In these situations, ORS for Kids can be safely given at home under proper guidance.

What Parents Must Check While Buying ORS

Not all ORS products available in the market follow medical standards. Dr. Jain strongly advises parents to read labels carefully before buying ORS for Kids.

1. It Should Not Contain Added Sugar

True ORS does not contain added sugar. Products with high sugar content can worsen diarrhea instead of treating it. Always check the ingredient list before purchasing.

2. Avoid Artificial ORS

Many flavored drinks and so-called “energy solutions” are falsely marketed as ORS. These artificial products lack the correct electrolyte balance and should never be used as ORS for Kids.

3. Follow WHO Guidelines

According to WHO guidelines, standard ORS must contain the right proportion of glucose and electrolytes to help the intestine absorb fluids properly. Parents should ensure the product follows the WHO-recommended composition.

4. Beware of Fake ORS in the Market

Fake or misleading ORS products are widely available. These may look attractive, but fail to provide medical benefits. Using non-standard products instead of genuine ORS for Kids can delay recovery and increase complications.

FSSAI Warning on Misleading ORS Names

To protect public health, FSSAI (Food Safety and Standards Authority of India) has banned misleading names like “Smart ORS” and “Hydra ORS”. These names often confuse parents and give a false sense of medical safety. Such branding dilutes the importance of real ORS and puts children at risk.

Dr. Priyanka Jain emphasizes that parents should trust only medically approved formulations and avoid marketing gimmicks while choosing ORS for Kids.

How to Use Market ORS Safely

If you are using ORS powder:

• Mix the entire sachet in the exact amount of clean drinking water mentioned on the pack

• Do not add sugar, salt, or flavor

• Use the prepared solution within 24 hours

• Store it in a clean, covered container

The amount of ORS for Kids depends on the child’s age and weight, so always follow your pediatrician’s advice.

How to Make ORS at Home (When Needed)

In emergencies, ORS can be prepared at home, but accuracy is extremely important. Mix:

• 6 level teaspoons of sugar

• ½ level teaspoon of salt

• In 1 liter of clean, boiled, and cooled water

Incorrect proportions can cause serious problems. Homemade ORS should only be used when packaged ORS for Kids is not available and must be given carefully.

Hygiene and Storage Matter

Clean hands, safe water, and proper storage are essential while preparing ORS. Always store ORS sachets in a cool, dry place away from sunlight. Poor hygiene can reduce the effectiveness of ORS for Kids and increase the risk of infection.

Final Advice from Dr. Priyanka Jain

ORS is one of the simplest yet most powerful tools to save children from dehydration. But its benefits are only achieved when parents choose genuine products, prepare them correctly, and avoid misleading alternatives. ORS for Kids is affordable, effective, and lifesaving—but only when used the right way.

For proper guidance on ORS use, dehydration management, and overall child health, parents are encouraged to consult Pediatrician Dr. Priyanka Jain at Bachpan Kids Care Clinic.