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Benefits of Nutritional Therapy for Gastroenteritis

Jun 20, 2011 | By Jeffrey Traister

Gastroenteritis, commonly called stomach flu or viral gastroenteritis, is actually not a flu, but rather is an inflammation in the intestinal tract caused by pathological microorganisms, such as bacteria, virus or parasite. Infection with gastroenteritis can occur from contact with infected persons, food or water. You can prevent it with frequent hand washing. Nutritional therapy can help you recover from the infection. Consult your doctor about nutritional therapy for gastroenteritis.

Rehydration

Rehydration with water and electrolytes can accelerate recovery. Common symptoms of diarrhea and vomiting can cause dehydration and a loss of essential minerals called electrolytes such as potassium. Infants, young children, elderly and people with weak immune systems are especially susceptible to dehydration. Researchers at the University of Iowa studied the rehydration effects of Pedialyte, Gatorade and a new oral rehydration solution in patients with viral gastroenteritis. The study, published in the Sept.-Oct. 2006 issue of the "Journal of Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition," found that body weight improved and stool frequency and urine output were similar in all three groups, but low blood levels of potassium were found in more patients in the Gatorade group.

Zinc

Zinc is a trace mineral that you need for proper functioning of your immune system. Zinc is also effective in reducing and preventing diarrhea associated with gastroenteritis. Research by scientists at the Medical College of Georgia in Augusta and published in "Pediatrics" in February 2008 found that zinc supplementation can reduce the duration and severity of diarrhea. Zinc alone is effective in treating diarrhea, even when taken without other minerals or vitamins, according to research by scientists at the National Institute of Cholera and Enteric Diseases in Kolkata, India and published in "The Journal of Pediatrics" in May 2011.

Yogurt with Probiotics

Diarrhea can change the flora in your intestinal tract, particularly increasing the potential loss of friendly bacteria that helps to protect your cells from foreign invaders. Yogurt with probiotics is an effective way to replenish your body with essential nutrients, such as protein and calcium and reestablish a healthy bacterial flora in your intestinal tract. Research by scientists at Ghaem Hospital in Mashhad, Iran and published in the "Saudi Medical Journal" in March 2010 found that consuming probiotic yogurt can accelerate improvement in non-inflammatory gastroenteritis.

Food with Electrolytes

Although your body may be able to heal on its own, the most important thing is to replenish your electrolytes through fluids and foods. The types of foods that are rich sources of electrolytes, including potassium, sodium, magnesium and calcium, are complex carbohydrates, such as whole grains, potatoes and lean meats. Beans and green leafy vegetables are also good sources of electrolytes.

References

Article reviewed by Mia Paul Last updated on: Jun 20, 2011

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