Heatwave: the usefulness of moisturizing tablets contested by a nutritionist

Available in large quantities in many pharmacies, these lozenges promise improved hydration. The scientific community warns against the repeated use of these effervescent tablets.

"They don't make you more athletic, but they do improve performance and hydration." This is one of the catchphrases used by companies marketing hydration tablets. These tablets have been a resounding success for almost a year, and even more so during these hot periods with their promise of improving hydration.

It must be said that the message is being hammered home at the moment on social media and in television advertisements. These effervescent tablets with mint, lemongrass, or wild berry flavors, from brands like Hydratis or Waterdrop, are selling like hotcakes. "I work in a café and it's very hot," explains Arthur, a tube of hydrating lozenges in his bag. "I take one in the evening and I'm in great shape the next day." But it didn't take the arrival of the heatwave to see the phenomenon explode. These lozenges are enjoying a certain success among young people, considered by some as an "anti-hangover" remedy. "My body is hydrated during the night, and the next day, I don't have a real hangover," explains Arthur.

In pharmacies, these lozenges are making their mark. It's common to see them lined up in rows. "They're electrolytes," explains Pauline, a pharmacist, responding to a customer who wonders about the real usefulness of these lozenges. "They hydrate more than regular water, with potassium, magnesium, zinc... We increase our rehydration capacity with electrolytes."

Dr. Jacques Fricker hears this argument all day long. This nutritionist is questioned daily by his patients about the effects of these tablets. For this scientist, there is no added value compared to water.

"In the water you drink or in mineral waters, you already have potassium, magnesium..."

Jacques Fricker, nutritionist

to franceinfo

According to this scientist, the benefit of these lozenges is ultimately only a slight carbohydrate intake, but with sugar, it promotes weight gain in those who take them regularly . "The problem with these tablets that give a sweet or fruity flavor is that it leads to putting more sugar in the rest of the food. I advise my patients not to take these lozenges. Just drink water."