THE SCIENCE
Every QNCH formula is built around how the body actually absorbs and uses water.
For those of you that took the liberty to seek out the science page we have compiled some studies and tests to assure you why we use the ingredients we use and how we make sure they are safe.
This page breaks down the science behind hydration, the role of key electrolytes, and the standards we follow to ensure quality, safety, and transparency.
Sodium is the primary electrolyte responsible for fluid retention and absorption. When consumed with water, sodium helps the body retain fluids and hydrate more effectively than water alone. This mechanism is the basis of medical oral rehydration solutions.
Research
- NICE / British National Formulary – Oral rehydration solutions improve water absorption vs plain water
BNF: Fluids and electrolytes - NHS Scotland – Clinical oral rehydration guidance
Right Decisions NHS Scotland - Maughan et al., AJCN – Sodium-containing drinks improve fluid retention compared to water
American Journal of Clinical Nutrition study
Potassium works alongside sodium to regulate fluid balance inside cells. Adequate potassium intake supports normal hydration, muscle function, and nerve signalling.
Research
- NHS – Potassium supports fluid balance and cellular function
NHS: Potassium - NICE / BNF – Potassium included in electrolyte solutions to restore fluid balance
BNF: Fluids and electrolytes - EFSA – Potassium contributes to normal muscle and nerve function
EFSA scientific opinion on potassium
Magnesium supports normal muscle and nerve function and is lost through sweat. Low magnesium status is associated with fatigue and cramping, making it a relevant supporting electrolyte.
Research
- NHS – Magnesium contributes to normal muscle and nerve function
NHS: Magnesium - EFSA – Magnesium contributes to electrolyte balance
EFSA magnesium health claim - NHS Specialist Pharmacy Service – Clinical guidance on low magnesium
NHS SPS: Hypomagnesaemia
Taurine is an amino acid involved in cell volume regulation and hydration. Research suggests taurine may support fluid balance and physical performance when combined with electrolytes.
Research
- Frontiers in Sports and Active Living – Taurine and hydration-related performance
Frontiers review - PubMed – Taurine and cellular hydration mechanisms
PubMed review - Lancaster University research – Taurine supplementation and exercise performance
Lancaster University research portal
Vitamin B6 supports normal energy metabolism, while vitamin C contributes to normal tissue function and protection against oxidative stress during physical and environmental stress.
Research
- NHS – Vitamin B6 supports energy metabolism and haemoglobin formation
NHS: Vitamin B - NHS – Vitamin C supports normal tissue function
NHS: Vitamin C - EFSA – Authorised health claims for vitamins B6 and C
EFSA authorised health claims
A small amount of carbohydrate improves water and sodium absorption via sodium–glucose co-transport. This is why medical hydration formulas include glucose rather than relying on water alone.
Research
- NICE / BNF – Glucose enhances sodium and water absorption
BNF: Oral rehydration solutions - BAPEN (UK) – Oral rehydration requires glucose for effective hydration
BAPEN oral rehydration guidance - Maughan et al., AJCN – Carbohydrate–electrolyte drinks retain fluid better than water
Beverage Hydration Index study