The stomach flu is a highly contagious viral infection of the digestive tract that can cause vomiting, nausea and diarrhea. It typically lasts one to three days and is treated with rest and a modified diet. Certain foods can aggravate the gut and cause the symptoms of the stomach flu to increase and should be avoided. Talk with your doctor before modifying your diet to treat any medical condition. Diarrhea from the stomach flu can lead to dehydration, a potentially life-threatening condition.
Eating With the Stomach Flu
The stomach flu is a misleading term because this viral infection is not caused by the influenza virus but from various other viruses. Eating with the stomach flu is difficult because the primary symptoms are vomiting and diarrhea. MedlinePlus, an online resource of the National Institutes of Health, recommends that you stop eating and drinking if you are unable to keep any foods or beverages down. This will help calm the stomach and stop it from contracting. After an hour or two, you can introduce liquids and foods in small quantities.
Foods to Avoid
Certain foods will cause the stomach to become more irritated and should be avoided. These include foods high in fiber, sugar and fat as well as spicy foods. Certain fruit juices, such as pear and apple juice, should be avoided because they can promote diarrhea. Other foods and beverages to avoid include dairy products and those that contain alcohol or caffeine. Alcohol and caffeine can cause the body to deplete itself of water and needed salts to maintain hydration.
Introduction Foods
Once your stomach is settled, begin to introduce foods and beverages in small quantities that are easy on the stomach and will promote regular bowel movements. These include toast, bread, bananas, rice and apples. If you can't keep liquids down, sip on a teaspoon of water or a sports drink that contains electrolytes. Try sucking on ice pops to keep your body hydrated.
Concern
The main complication associated with the stomach flu is dehydration. Dehydration occurs when your body is depleted of too much water. Common signs of dehydration include dry mouth, dry skin, thirst and lightheadedness. Call your doctor if you suspect that you're dehydrated.
