Abstract

PIP: A controlled randomized trial of WHO standard oral rehydration solution containing 50 g rice powder instead of 20 g/l glucose was conducted in 48 male children aged 3 months to 3 years. Both solutions contained 90 mM Na+, 20 mM K+, 80 mM C1- and 30 mm HC03-. Rice powder solution was prepared by boiling 50 g dry rice powder in several hundred m1 water, cooling, dissolving electrolytes, and adding water to 1 L. Children with dehydration clinically estimated at 10% body weight were initially treated with Ringers lactate iv until blood pressure and pulse normalized, then joined the rehydration study. Weight, fluid intake, urine output by condom drainage and gastrointestinal losses by weight of linen were recorded every 4 hours. 23 children in each group were successfully rehydrated determined clinically; 1 in each group required iv fluids for persistent vomiting. Patients on rice powder had a lower purge rate and fluid intake, and a significant decrease in stool frequency during the 1st 24 hours, mean 14.1 vs. 20 5. Rice contains 7-10% protein, is rich in glycine, lysine, leucine and isoleucine, and is 80% hydrolyzed to glucose. Futhermore, it is readily available and has been used traditionally in Indian homes.