Evidence supporting the use of: Alkali (unspecified)
For the health condition: Dehydration
Synopsis
Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 4
Alkali substances, most commonly sodium bicarbonate or other sodium salts, are scientifically validated components used in the treatment of dehydration, especially in the context of oral rehydration therapy (ORT). Dehydration, particularly due to diarrhea, causes loss of fluids and essential electrolytes such as sodium, potassium, and bicarbonate. Loss of bicarbonate can lead to metabolic acidosis. Oral rehydration solutions (ORS), recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO) and UNICEF, contain a precise combination of glucose and electrolytes, including sodium and sometimes bicarbonate or citrate (which acts as an alkalinizing agent). The inclusion of an alkali helps to correct metabolic acidosis and restore the body’s acid-base balance, which is often disrupted in severe dehydration. Numerous clinical trials and systematic reviews have shown that ORS with an alkalinizing component effectively reduces mortality and morbidity from dehydration due to diarrheal diseases. While the use of specific alkali (such as sodium bicarbonate) has been refined over time, and some modern ORS formulas use citrate instead, the underlying principle remains scientifically validated. The evidence supporting the use of alkali in rehydration is robust, practical, and forms the basis of global health recommendations.
Other health conditions supported by Alkali (unspecified)
Acid IndigestionBladder Infection
Boils
Bronchitis
Canker Sores
Congestion (bronchial)
Dehydration
Digestion (poor)
Enteritis
Gout
Indigestion
Overacidity
Uric Acid Retention