Low potassium levels, also called hypokalemia, can affect people of all ages. Sometimes the condition is the result of a temporary condition--for example, if you perspire a lot during sports or intense exercise and you don't replace the water you've lost.
Diarrhea in infants. Children who have diarrhea may have less energy, dry eyes, or a dry, sticky mouth. They may also not wet their diaper as often as usual. Give your child fluids for the first 4 to 6 hours. At first, try 1 ounce (2 tablespoons) of fluid every 30 to 60 minutes. If you are nursing, keep breastfeeding your infant. If you are using formula, use it at half strength for 2 to 3 feedings after the diarrhea starts. Then begin regular formula feedings again.
And, juice or sports drinks or soda, which kids like, isn't recommended by the AAP for rehydrating a child with diarrhea. The problem with fruit juice is that it contains different types of sugar that may worsen diarrhea and stomach pain. The four major types of sugar are sucrose, glucose, fructose, and sorbitol. Juice and other foods that have sorbitol or high levels of fructose (such as grape, apple, or pear juices) are the worst culprits.