Food poisoning, also known as food-borne illness, occurs from the consumption of a contaminated food product by a bacteria, virus or parasite. The symptoms from the most common types of food poisoning generally start within two to six hours of eating the contaminated food product and they often improve within 48 hours. The goal of treatment for food poisoning consists of providing comfort measures and preventing dehydration.
Replace Fluids
According to FamilyDoctor.org, dehydration refers to the loss of fluids and electrolytes or the nutrients and minerals that the body needs to function appropriately. Sucking on ice chips or taking frequent sips of water, clear soups, clear sodas, non-caffeinated sports drinks and juice mixed with water, can help to prevent dehydration and replace fluids lost by diarrhea and vomiting. Fluids to avoid until the illness has resolved include milk, coffee, tea, alcohol, dark sodas, and other caffeinated beverages. The New York Times Health Guide recommends contacting a medical professional for help with a severe case of nausea and vomiting, especially if symptoms of dehydration develop. Symptoms of dehydration include little or no urine, or urine that appears darker than usual, dry mouth, extreme thirst, absence of tears when crying, sleepiness or fatigue, headache, confusion and feeling dizzy or lightheaded. The doctor may advise fluid and electrolyte replacement through a vein by an IV or intravenously.
Eat Bland Foods
The Mayo Clinic recommends gradually adding bland, easy-to-digest foods such as soda crackers, toast, gelatin, bananas and rice back into the diet after nausea and vomiting have passed. If nausea and vomiting return, refrain from eating and drinking for a few hours and then slowly ease back into eating again. Avoid eating highly seasoned foods, fried foods, dairy products and foods that contain a high fat and sugar content until after the illness has passed.
Avoid Anti-Diarrheal Medications
According to the Mayo Clinic, avoid taking anti-diarrheal medications because they may worsen the food poisoning symptoms by slowing down the elimination of the bacteria or toxins from the body. The New York Times Health Guide recommends contacting a physician if a fever develops in addition to the diarrhea, and if blood appears in the stool.
Rest
Weakness may develop as a result of dehydration and the body's immune system may require rest in order to adequately fight off the illness. Not only does resting assist the body in a quicker recovery time but resting the bowels and stomach by avoiding certain food products, helps in lessening the gastrointestinal symptoms associated with food poisoning.
