Food poisoning can occur after eating contaminated foods, says the Mayo Clinic. Food contamination might occur when the food is grown, stored, prepared or at any other point in between. Food poisoning also can occur after eating spoiled foods or foods that have not been stored at the correct temperature. See a doctor if food poisoning symptoms are severe. If symptoms are manageable at home, you can use natural remedies to help reduce your symptoms.
Slowly Sip Liquids
Vincent F. Garagusi, M.D., professor of medicine and microbiology and director of the Infectious Disease Service at Georgetown University Hospital in Washington, D.C., recommends sipping water or clear liquids such as diluted apple juice very slowly. Sipping liquids will replenish the body after symptoms of vomiting and diarrhea. Drinking too much of a liquid at once, particularly while experiencing food poisoning symptoms, can trigger vomiting.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar might help kill bacteria in the body after consuming contaminated foods, says the University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC). Prepare a cup of warm water, and pour in 2 tsp. of apple cider vinegar. Sip the liquid slowly to help reduce bacteria in the body. Drink several times a day for best results, recommends the UMMC.
Drink Electrolyte Beverages
After symptoms of vomiting or diarrhea, your body might be lacking electrolytes, says Lynne Mofenson, M.D., associate branch chief for clinical research at the National Institutes of Health. Mofenson suggests preparing an electrolyte beverage at home to help replenish the body. Mix 1/2 tsp. honey and a small amount of table salt into a glass of fruit juice, and drink it to help hydrate the body. The fruit juice adds potassium, the honey adds glucose and the table salt adds sodium chloride, which will help replenish the body's electrolytes.
Eat Bland Foods
After symptoms of vomiting and diarrhea are over, eat only bland foods to help settle the stomach. Eating foods that are easy on the stomach, such as rice, toast, bananas, soda crackers and gelatin, will help rest the stomach and prevent symptoms of nausea, vomiting and diarrhea from returning, says the Mayo Clinic. Even after you begin feeling better, avoid spicy foods, caffeine, dairy products and fatty foods for several days.
