Effect of Dilute Apple Juice and Preferred Fluids vs Electrolyte Maintenance Solution on Treatment Failure Among Children With Mild Gastroenteritis: A Randomized Clinical Trial
Freedman SB, Willan AR, Boutis K, Schuh S
Published in JAMA, Vol. 315 (18), pp. 1966-74
Methodology
Single-blind randomised noninferiority trial in a Toronto paediatric emergency department. 647 children aged 6 to 60 months with gastroenteritis and minimal dehydration got either half-strength apple juice followed by their preferred fluids, or an apple-flavoured electrolyte maintenance solution.
Key Findings
Treatment failure within 7 days was less common with dilute apple juice (16.7%) than with electrolyte solution (25.0%; P = 0.006 for superiority). Fewer children in the juice group needed intravenous rehydration (2.5% vs 9.0%). Hospitalisation and diarrhea and vomiting frequency did not differ.
Conclusions
For children with mild gastroenteritis and minimal dehydration in high-income settings, dilute juice and preferred fluids are an appropriate alternative to electrolyte solution.
Limitations
Applies only to mild cases with minimal dehydration in a high-income setting; not to moderate or severe dehydration.
Supplements Studied
Its advantage in minimally dehydrated children is unproven.
Related Health Concerns
Study Details
Access Study
This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplement regimen.