Gastroenteritis is a temporary, yet uncomfortable health problem that causes numerous symptoms, such as fever, chills, headache, vomiting, diarrhea and abdominal pain. This condition is also known as the stomach flu, notes MedlinePlus, and involves inflammation of your intestinal lining from bacterial, viral or parasitic invasion. Before changing your diet to help treat your gastroenteritis, visit your family physician to review the merits, drawbacks and limitations of this natural healing approach.
Gastroenteritis Info
Gastroenteritis is a health problem that can affect people of all ages. According to the Cincinnati Children's Hospital (CCH), gastroenteritis is usually more serious in infants and young children, as diarrhea and vomiting are more likely to lead to mineral loss and dehydration. Some types of bacteria that may cause gastroenteritis include Escherichia coli, Salmonella, Campylobacter and Shigella. Viruses that may commonly cause this health problem include rotaviruses, adenoviruses and norovirus. Diet, though just one of many possible treatment measures, is an important consideration in addressing your gastroenteritis.
Diet Plans
Certain diet plans or dietary strategies may help treat you or your child's gastroenteritis. The CCH notes that certain foods may be particularly helpful for this health purpose, including cereals, bread, potatoes, lean meats, plain yogurt, bananas, applesauce and vegetables. Other beneficial foods in treating your gastroenteritis, notes certified nutritional consultant Phyllis A. Balch, author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," include garlic and kelp. The CCH suggests avoiding consumption of clear liquids that lack the required minerals to replenish those lost from diarrhea and vomiting. You should also avoid consuming sports drinks, carbonated beverages and sugary drinks if you have this condition.
Highlighted Food
Kelp may be one of the most important foods in helping you recover from gastroenteritis. Balch notes that kelp contains minerals that are needed to restore electrolytes lost from diarrhea, and that kelp has historically been used in treating gastroenteritis and food-borne or waterborne illness. Kelp, a type of seaweed, contains an abundance of nutrients, including iodine, iron, calcium, magnesium, folate and vitamin K. More research evidence using contemporary scientific testing methods may be needed to validate the purported health effects of kelp in treating gastroenteritis.
Disclaimer
Gastroenteritis usually resolves within a few days, but certain individuals -- babies, the elderly and people who have suppressed immune systems -- may develop severe dehydration that requires more aggressive care. Diet is an important consideration in any treatment plan to address this health problem, but you should only use dietary changes as an adjunct treatment measure for this condition. Always follow the treatment advice given to you by your primary care provider. Some foods or dietary strategies may not be right for you or your health problem.
References
- MedlinePlus: Gastroenteritis
- Cincinnati Children's Hospital: Gastroenteritis
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch, C.N.C., James F. Balch, M.D.; 2010
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