The dreaded stomach virus, also known in medical circles as viral gastroenteritis and more commonly, the stomach flu, isn't actually a virus at all. Viral gastroenteritis is an intestinal infection that results in cramping, diarrhea, nausea and vomiting. There are a couple of ways you can get the infection--through contact with an already infected person or through eating contaminated food and water. Because there is no way of treating a virus, the best way to recover from gastroenteritis is through a a regimen of rest and hydration.
Step 1
Give your stomach a break. The best thing to do when you have a stomach virus is to make sure that you give it time to recover from the internal lashing that viral gastroenteritis is dishing out. If you're dehydrated and absolutely have to have something, try chewing on ice chips.
Step 2
Drink plenty of fluids. Once you've gotten past the worst of the vomiting, you're going to need to replace the fluids you've lost through both ends of your body. Don't be in a hurry to guzzle something down. You may be thirsty and dehydrated but you still need to be cautious. Water is a good source of hydration and so is clear soda. Plus, the effervescent bubbles that are plentiful in soda can have a positive effect on your stomach.
Step 3
Reintroduce food to your diet slowly. Depending on the severity of the virus, you may not feel like eating much of anything for a day or two. But once you are, you should slowly reintroduce foods that are bland and easy to digest. Toast, soda crackers, gelatin, soup, bananas and rice are good staples for a newly recovered stomach. Just be aware that if nausea returns, it's best to stop eating.
Step 4
Avoid certain types of food until you are fully recovered. Fatty foods, caffeine, alcohol and spicy substances should be steered clear of.
Step 5
Allow your body to rest and regain strength. A strong stomach virus can take a lot out of a person between the vomiting, diarrhea, dehydration and lack of food. The best way to get stronger is to not do anything. Stay in bed and continue to hydrate as your flu allows.
