Food poisoning occurs when you eat or drink a food or beverage that is contaminated with bacteria, a virus or parasites. Once you ingest the food or beverage, the contaminant causes unpleasant symptoms. Common symptoms of food poisoning are nausea, diarrhea, vomiting and stomach pain and typically begin within a few hours after ingesting the food or beverage, according to MayoClinic.com. Certain foods can help ease your digestive symptoms. Talk with your physician before modifying your diet to treat any medical condition.
About
Food poisoning symptoms can last from one to 10 days after consumption, according to MedlinePlus. A common concern of food poisoning symptoms is dehydration. Dehydration occurs from excessive vomiting or diarrhea that causes the body to become depleted of needed water and salts. Food poisoning can be avoided by eating fresh foods that are handled by hands that are washed and sanitized, not eating leftovers and properly cooking meats to a safe temperature.
Foods to Eat
If you are experiencing excessive diarrhea and vomiting, stop eating and drinking for a few hours, until your stomach settles, according to MayoClinic.com. Begin eating and drinking small quantities of bland and easy-to-digest foods. The National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse recommends starting with bananas, rice, apples and toast, commonly known as the BRAT Diet. Once you feel that your stomach can handle these foods, introduce cooked carrots, skinless chicken, boiled potatoes and crackers. Do not add foods quickly.
Liquid Intake
Increase your liquid intake to prevent dehydration. MayoClinic.com recommends drinking eight to 16 glasses of liquid daily during food poisoning. Drink water, fruit juices, clear sodas and sports drinks. Avoid drinking beverages that contain caffeine or alcohol, as these substances can promote dehydration and irritation of the digestive system. If you're having difficulty keeping liquids down, suck on an ice pop or ice chips or sip teaspoons of liquid.
Foods to Avoid
Avoid foods that are difficult for the body to digest, such as fatty foods, foods that are high in fiber, foods high in sugar and spicy foods. These foods could increase or prolong your symptoms. Maintain a simple diet that is free from processed foods. The National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse states that dairy products should be avoided while battling diarrhea.
Consideration
It is not recommended to take over-the-counter anti-diarrhea medications. These medications prevent your bowels from emptying, which can keep the contaminant trapped in your system. Discuss all treatment options with your doctor.
