Evidence supporting the use of: Glycerol
For the health condition: Dehydration
Synopsis
Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 4
Glycerol (also known as glycerin) has a scientifically validated role in supporting hydration, particularly in the context of exercise and clinical settings. Glycerol is an osmotic agent, meaning it draws water into bodily compartments. When ingested with fluids, glycerol increases total body water by promoting fluid retention, a phenomenon known as "hyperhydration." This effect has been demonstrated in multiple studies, especially in endurance athletes seeking to delay dehydration during prolonged physical activity. Several randomized controlled trials have shown that glycerol supplementation (typically 1–1.2 g/kg body weight mixed with water) prior to exercise increases fluid retention, expands plasma volume, and can delay the onset of dehydration-related symptoms.
Clinically, glycerol is sometimes used as an adjunct in intravenous fluids or as an oral rehydration adjunct in certain cases, such as for patients with increased risk of fluid loss. However, its primary use remains in sports and research rather than routine medical management of dehydration. The World Health Organization and most clinical guidelines do not recommend glycerol as a standard treatment for dehydration, favoring oral rehydration solutions based on glucose and electrolytes.
In summary, there is good scientific evidence supporting glycerol’s efficacy in promoting fluid retention and delaying dehydration, especially in athletic contexts. Its use in general dehydration management is less common in clinical practice but is supported by physiological mechanisms and clinical studies demonstrating increased total body water and tolerance to fluid loss.
