Why You Shouldn't Mix Water With Pedialyte

It's important for our bodies to receive proper hydration in order to function on a daily basis. The countless health benefits of drinking water include ridding our bladders of bacteria, maintaining adequate body temperature and blood pressure, and keeping our electrolytes balanced, per Harvard Health Publishing. As to how much liquid we should be consuming every day, The U.S. National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine states that men should drink 3.7 liters of fluid each day, while women should consume 2.7 liters daily (via the Mayo Clinic).

When it comes to preventing dehydration, water isn't the only option. Pedialyte is an over-the-counter oral rehydration drink that replenishes electrolytes lost through sweating during physical activity, illness, heat, and even travel. That said, since water and Pedialyte are both great ways to ensure proper hydration, combining them may seem like a good idea. After all, that would mean double the hydration, right? 

As it turns out, medical professionals advise against mixing the two together.

According to the drink's official website, Pedialyte is made up of twice the amount of sodium and far less sugar than most sports drinks, which means it can correct electrolyte imbalance without the potential sugar crash. Pedialyte also contains zinc, another essential mineral crucial to proper body functioning. Pedialyte comes in various flavors, and its assortment of products targets different key areas of body function, from immunity to muscle strength to digestive support.

While Pedialyte does come in different forms, its liquid formula should not be modified with any additional liquids, including water (via Healthline). Mixing in other liquids would dilute the carefully crafted formula of sugar and sodium, reducing its hydrating effects. Therefore, Pedialyte liquid products are best left as they are.

For children at risk of dehydration from physical illness, as many as 32 to 64 fluid ounces should be sufficient daily (via Pedialyte). Children should not exceed this amount, and should see their pediatrician if they find themselves in need of more or if symptoms do not improve within 24 hours. Additionally, children under the age of one or those who are breastfeeding should seek doctor consultation before use.