Honey in the treatment of infantile gastroenteritis

Abstract

A clinical study was undertaken using honey in oral rehydration solution in infants and children with gastroenteritis. The aim was to evaluate the influence of honey on the duration of acute diarrhoea and its value as a glucose substitute in oral rehydration. The results showed that honey shortens the duration of bacterial diarrhoea, does not prolong the duration of non-bacterial diarrhoea, and may safely be used as a substitute for glucose in an oral rehydration solution containing electrolytes. The correct dilution of honey, as well as the presence of electrolytes in the oral rehydration solution, however, must be maintained. © 1985, British Medical Journal Publishing Group. All rights reserved.