Viral gastroenteritis, also sometimes called the stomach flu, is an intestinal infection that causes symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramping and diarrhea, according to MayoClinic.com. Although there is no treatment for the stomach flu, you should be able to aid your recovery by eating foods that are gentle on your stomach.
Bland Foods
Your system may be sensitive to your normal diet when you're still recovering from the stomach flu. Stick with bland and easily digested foods at first. Soda crackers, white chicken meat, plain yogurt, boiled potatoes and other well-cooked vegetables fall into this category. Your doctor may also suggest that you try the BRAT diet: bananas, rice, applesauce and toast. These foods are low in fiber and can help firm up your stools. The bananas also happen to be high in potassium, which helps replace some of the nutrients your body may have lost due to vomiting or diarrhea, according to the American Academy of Family Physicians.
Irritating Foods
Don't eat any spicy, fatty or fiber-rich foods for about 24 to 48 hours after your last episode of diarrhea or vomiting. Off-limits foods include highly sweetened foods, dairy products besides yogurt, raw vegetables, gassy vegetables such as cabbage and broccoli, fresh or dried fruit, whole grains, seeds, nuts and smoked or cured meats, recommends MedlinePlus.
Fluids First
If you're still vomiting or having frequent diarrhea, give your stomach at least a few hours to settle and stick with liquids while you wait, recommends MayoClinic.com. Your main goal should be staying hydrated and replacing any lost minerals and salts. Water, ice chips and sports drinks should help rehydrate adults and older kids, but babies and younger children should have pediatric electrolyte replacement solutions and freezer pops. Babies should also continue nursing or drinking formula. Sip about 2 to 4 oz. of fluid every 30 minutes to an hour to avoid overwhelming your stomach. Avoid fruit juice, soft drinks, gelatin and broth, as they can worsen diarrhea and vomiting. Also stay away from caffeine and alcohol because they increase your risk of dehydration.
Warning
You shouldn't go for more than about 24 to 48 hours without eating nutritious foods such as fruits and whole grains because malnourishment can compromise your ability to heal from the stomach flu. See a doctor if you or your child can't eat regularly after 48 hours. Also get medical help if you or your child has a fever, can't keep down fluids for 24 hours or has signs of dehydration such as dry mouth and severe weakness or dizziness, recommends MayoClinic.com.
References
- MayoClinic.com; Viral gastroenteritis (stomach flu); June 2011
- FamilyDoctor.org; BRAT Diet: Recovering From an Upset Stomach; September 2009
- MedlinePlus: Bland diet
- MayoClinic.com; Viral gastroenteritis: Lifestyle and home remedies; June 2011
- University Health Service at University of Michigan: Diarrhea and Vomiting
- MedlinePlus: Viral gastroenteritis
