The stomach flu rarely is a serious condition. However, it can cause diarrhea, stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, muscle soreness and fevers. As a result, many children will not eat while they have the stomach flu. The illness likely will last only a day or two, but it is important for children to rebuild strength to return to school and normal activity. As a parent, you have a number of options to ensure your child returns to normal eating habits following the stomach flu.
Step 1
Keep your child hydrated while he has the stomach flu. Avoid providing solid foods if your child is vomiting. Have your child sip water or lick ice chips or give your child a frozen treat on a stick.
Step 2
Start your child on clear liquids once she has stopped vomiting. Give your child drinks that contain carbohydrates and electrolytes. Try clear sports drinks or sodas, such as ginger ale. They can help prevent your child from becoming dehydrated. Give your child juice as well as broth or plain gelatin.
Step 3
Give your child bland foods once he is able to keep clear liquids down. Bland foods can help return your child's digestive system to normal. Try plain noodles, gelatin, crackers, bananas and rice.
Step 4
Return to your child's normal diet. Once flu symptoms have diminished and your child is able to consume bland food products, start your child on a normal diet. Avoid spicy foods for a few days.
Step 5
Provide your child with her favorite meal or snack once she has recovered. Encourage her to rebuild strength by providing her with her favorite foods. A child is more likely to consume foods she enjoys.
