What to eat and avoid when you have the stomach flu

Having intestinal flu (gastroenteritis) can make it difficult to eat anything, but staying hydrated and reconstructing nutrients is essential for recovery. Fortunately, there are a lot of comforting and nutrient foods beyond the chicken noodle soup that can help you feel better.

Jump at the main dishes to remember.

1. Transparent liquids

Because diarrhea and vomiting occur with intestinal flu, you will want to focus on the reconstruction of the fluids you lose. You can do this by regularly taking small sips of liquids (mainly) clear to remain hydrated and prevent dehydration.

Clear-liquid options in addition to water include:

The elderly, people with compromise immune systems and children are particularly likely to undergo dehydration after an episode of gastric influenza, which can be serious and potentially fatal if it is not treated.

2. Fruit

It is important to consume enough electrolytes to replace those who have been lost in diarrhea or vomiting.

Electrolytes, essential minerals that help maintain fluid balance and other body functions include magnesium, potassium, sodium and chloride. Many are in the fruits, such as:

• Apples
• Lawyer
• Banana
• Oranges
• Watermelon

Pieces of fine slices fruit can be used as light and refreshing snack which is also easy on the digestive system.

3. bland carbohydrates

Eating small amounts of bland carbohydrates, such as bread products based on refined flour, is another way to get food in your stomach while you have gastric flu. Because these carbohydrates are low in fiber and easily digestible, consider options such as:

• Cereals like wheat cream, oat flour and cornflakes
• Corn bread
• Pasta
• Savory crackers
• White rice

In addition, foods and salt crackers also contain electrolytes in sodium form, so you can reconstruct the hydration levels at the same time.

4.

Natural Greek yogurt contains probiotics, living microorganisms that help balance the “good” intestinal bacteria.

When you have gastric flu, symptoms like diarrhea and vomiting can disturb your intestinal bacterial environment, which can have a negative impact on your immune system and other aspects of health. In addition, some studies suggest that the consumption of probiotics can shorten the duration of diarrhea and improve the symptoms of gastric flu.

Consider opting for a few bites of Greek and non -sweet Greek yogurt, which contains lively and active cultures, to support your recovery while being easy on the digestive system.

5. Vegetables

Although vegetables do not seem attractive for gastric flu, remember that they are recommended by experts because they contain electrolytes like potassium and magnesium. Here are some potential options:

A portion of vegetables, like an oven potato, can be better consumed when your appetite begins to come back.

6. Skinny protein

Towards the end of the gastric flu, you could be ready for slightly warmer meals. Meanwhile, you may have an appetite for lean proteins, which, according to experts, are a good option.

Simple and lean proteins offer essential nutrients that support energy levels, promote muscle strength and maintain nutritional balance. Consider including small parts of the following elements in your meals:

• Boneless and skinless chicken
• Eggs
• Tofu
• Türkiye

Although these lean proteins are relatively easy on the stomach, you will probably want to prepare them by boiling or cooking without spices to eliminate the chances of upsetting your digestive system to normal.

Food to avoid

If you have an appetite, experts say that it is normal not to restrict your diet while you have the stomach flu and eat what you want.

That said, there are some types of food and drinks that can worsen symptoms such as diarrhea and vomiting because they affect your digestive system. Some of these articles that you should consider avoiding, if they do not seem appetizing:

• Alcohol
• Caffeinated drinks, such as coffee, tea and soft drinks
• Simple sugars, such as sugary drinks and certain fruit juices
• Fatty or fried foods, such as pizza or fast food
• Most dairy products, such as butter, milk and cream
• Spicy or acidic foods, such as peppers, tomatoes, citrus and vinegar

When to see a health care provider

Although many cases of the stomach flu can be summed up after a few days, it is a good idea to monitor your symptoms for signs of dehydration.

Contact a health care provider if you notice:

• Black, tarmac or bloody stool
• Diarrhea that lasts more than several days
• Fever
• Severe stomach pain
• Signs of dehydration, like feeling weak, experience dizziness and have a quick heart rate

Older adults, young children, pregnant people and people with weakened immune systems may need to see a health care provider earlier to help prevent gastric flu.

Main to remember

• Gastric flu causes uncomfortable digestive symptoms such as diarrhea and vomiting, and can cause dehydration. It is essential to remain hydrated with clear liquids and drinks rich in electrolytes.
• Flawing foods such as clear liquids, lean proteins, plain yogurt, fruits, vegetables and simple carbohydrates can help you recover, while irritating foods and drinks like sweeteners, caffeine, fat or fried foods should be avoided.
• If the symptoms persist for several days or if you have a weakened immune system, it is important to consult a health professional.