Symptoms of food poisoning vary with the type of organism that contaminated the food. In most cases, diarrhea, nausea, stomach cramps and vomiting improve without medical intervention within 48 hours, according to MayoClinic.com. However, small children, the elderly and the chronically ill may require hospitalization. Unless you know that contaminated food made you ill, be alert for other possible causes of your symptoms, including appendicitis, irritable bowel syndrome, gastroenteritis, ulcers or gallbladder disease.
Short-Term Fast
Some food-borne illnesses do not cause diarrhea or vomiting. If you have these symptoms, stop eating and drinking for a few hours to allow your digestive system to rest, then try a few ice chips or small sips of water, according to MayoClinic.com. Try bismuth subsalicylate -- Pepto-Bismol -- to help to slow or stop diarrhea but do not take other anti-diarrheal medications unless instructed to do so by your health care provider. If your diarrhea or vomiting continues beyond a few hours, or if you develop a high fever or bloody stools, seek medical attention.
Rehydrate
Vomiting and diarrhea can cause dehydration because of the loss of body fluids. Replace fluids and electrolytes with commercial solutions, such as Pedialyte, Oralyte or Ceralyte, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Avoid sports drinks, including Gatorade, as these products do not provide the proper balance of electrolytes. When you can tolerate more fluids, begin drinking eight to 16 glasses of water, clear sodas or broth a day until your urine is clear and straw-colored.
Soothe Stomach Irritation
Try barley water or rice water to soothe inflammation in your stomach and intestines, says the University of Maryland Medical Center. Two tsp. of apple cider vinegar in one cup of warm water may have an antibacterial effect, although no scientific studies have been conducted to support that theory. Probiotics may also help to restore the beneficial bacteria in your intestines after a bout of food poisoning. Do not give home remedies to a child unless instructed to do so by a health care provider.
Eat Lightly
When you can tolerate food, stick to small meals at first to avoid overloading your digestive system. Avoid dairy foods, as well as spicy and fatty foods, as they may cause irritation, says MayoClinic.com. Avoid other irritating substances as well, including caffeine, alcohol and nicotine. Instead, choose bland foods, such as rice, applesauce, toast and bananas at first, then add vegetables, yogurt, and other fruits and starches. When you feel well enough, resume your regular diet.
