When suffering from traveler's diarrhea, the primary goal is rehydration and electrolyte replacement. The most effective drink is an Oral Rehydration Solution (ORS), which is a specific balance of salts and glucose (like Pedialyte or WHO-standard ORS packets) that aids water absorption in the intestines. If you don't have access to packets, you can make a "homebrew" version with six level teaspoons of sugar and a half-teaspoon of salt in one litre of safe, boiled water. Avoid high-sugar drinks like sodas or standard fruit juices, as the high sugar content can actually draw more water into the gut and worsen the diarrhea. Caffeine and alcohol are also "no-gos" as they are diuretics that contribute to dehydration. In 2026, "clear broths" and weak decaffeinated teas are also recommended for gentle hydration. A high-value peer tip is to use only bottled or purified water even for brushing your teeth or making your ORS, as the local tap water may be the original source of the pathogens making you sick in the first place.