The stomach flu has been confusing since the debate whether to starve a cold and feed a fever broke out. Even today, it's hard to get accurate information about this common affliction. The stomach flu has nothing to do with your stomach or the influenza virus. The stomach flu is actually viral gastroenteritis, the second most common illness each year in the United States, according to the National Digestive Disease Information Clearinghouse. Eating the proper food at the right time reduces the uncomfortable symptoms of this digestive disorder commonly known as the stomach flu.
Features
Viral gastroenteritis damages the cells that line the inside of the small intestine. These cells seep fluids into the digestive tract, adding surplus liquid into the stool, causing diarrhea. Some strains of viral gastroenteritis cause vomiting, which could also cause dehydration and nutrient loss. Other strains of this virus cause a fever, which may also result in dehydration. Prolonged dehydration may result in electrolyte imbalances, which may cause irregular heartbeat and cardiac problems. A diet designed for patients with the stomach flu features foods that allow the intestine to heal and focuses on fluid replacement to avoid dehydration and its consequences while offering enough nutrition for the body to heal properly.
Sips and Chips
Wait a few hours after the first bouts of vomiting or diarrhea before attempting to take in fluids. This will give the intestines time to heal. Start with a teaspoon of ice chips or a single sip of water, and then wait a few minutes before taking another to be certain your body is ready for fluids. Continue taking in water as you progress through the dietary steps for treating the stomach flu.
Liquids
When you feel ready, try a sip of clear liquids such as weak tea or a spoonful of gelatin. Continue taking clear liquids, defined as fluid you can see through when it is at room temperature, such as fruit ice or broth. Give children electrolyte replacement drinks to avoid dehydration and electrolyte imbalance. Adults may consume sports drinks. After a day or so of clear liquids, try advancing to a full liquid diet. Full liquids are those foods that are opaque fluids at room temperature like ice cream, pudding or vegetable juices. People who are lactose intolerant should avoid dairy products. Stop consuming clear and full liquids if you vomit or have another bout of diarrhea.
Solid Food
Advance your diet to solid food as soon as your body can tolerate it. Your body has lost some vital nutrients during bouts of diarrhea, vomiting and fever. Begin by eating potatoes, bananas and toast. Avoid fatty or spicy foods, which are hard to digest.
