Public Health Nutrition

ORS (Oral Rehydration Solution) is a life-saving mixture used to prevent and treat dehydration caused by diarrhea, especially in children.

• What is ORS:

• ORS is a specific combination of clean water, salts (sodium chloride, potassium chloride), and sugar (glucose)
• It helps replace fluids and electrolytes lost during diarrhea or vomiting
• WHO and UNICEF recommend a standard formula

• Why Water is the Correct Mixing Liquid:

• ORS powder is designed specifically to be dissolved in clean drinking water
• Water ensures correct concentration of salts and sugar for proper absorption
• Other liquids alter the composition and can be harmful

• Why Other Options are Incorrect:

• (A) Milk:
  • Milk contains proteins, fats, and lactose
  • Can be difficult to digest during diarrhea
  • Alters electrolyte balance and may worsen diarrhea
• (B) Soup:
  • Contains salt and other ingredients
  • Unknown concentration—cannot ensure correct ORS formula
  • May not have proper glucose-electrolyte balance
• (C) Juice:
  • High sugar content (fructose)
  • Too much sugar can draw water into intestine (osmotic diarrhea)
  • Wrong electrolyte concentration

• ORS Preparation Guidelines:

• Use clean drinking water (boiled and cooled if unsure)
• Follow package instructions exactly
• Use entire packet for correct amount of water (usually 1 liter)
• Do not boil after mixing
• Discard after 24 hours

• ORS Recipe (if packet unavailable):

• 1 liter clean water
• 6 teaspoons sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

Final Answer: (D) Water

Breast milk is uniquely designed to meet all the nutritional needs of a newborn infant. Understanding what newborns require is crucial for proper infant care.

• Breast Milk Composition:

• Contains the perfect balance of nutrients: carbohydrates (lactose), proteins, fats, vitamins, and minerals
• Provides antibodies and immune factors that protect against infections
• Changes composition as the baby grows to meet changing needs
• Contains approximately 87% water, which fulfills the baby’s hydration needs

• Why Newborns Don’t Need Extra Water:

• Breast milk is about 87% water, enough to keep the baby well-hydrated even in hot weather
• Giving extra water can:
  • Fill the baby’s small stomach, reducing appetite for nutrient-rich breast milk
  • Lead to water intoxication (diluting electrolytes in blood)
  • Increase risk of infections if water is contaminated
• World Health Organization (WHO) recommends exclusive breastfeeding for first 6 months—no other liquids or solids, not even water

• Why Other Options are Incorrect:

• (A) Honey:
  • Never give honey to infants under 1 year
  • Risk of infant botulism (spores of Clostridium botulinum in honey)
  • Can cause serious illness or death
• (B) Glucose:
  • Not needed—breast milk provides lactose (milk sugar)
  • Extra glucose can disrupt blood sugar balance
  • Not recommended unless medically prescribed for specific conditions
• (C) Water:
  • Not needed as explained above
  • Exclusive breastfeeding provides all necessary hydration

WHO/UNICEF Recommendations:

• Initiate breastfeeding within first hour of birth
• Exclusive breastfeeding for first 6 months (no water, no other milk, no foods)
• Continue breastfeeding with complementary foods up to 2 years or beyond

Final Answer: (D) None of these

Source of Water – Correct Answer

Water enters the body from:

• Drinking water
• Beverages
• Food
• Metabolic water

Sweets are not a source of water because:

• They contain very little water.
• They are high in sugar and fats.
• They do not contribute significantly to hydration.

Final Answer: Sweets