1. Stay Hydrated
The most important way to treat food poisoning is to keep yourself hydrated. This may be difficult to do if you are constantly vomiting, but it will help you recover in the long run. Food poisoning that results from eating contaminated food can last anywhere from 24 hours to 10 days, but most commonly lasts for about 48 hours. Symptoms range from stomach cramps and fever to severe vomiting and diarrhea. Taking small sips of water or an electrolyte-rich beverage as often as possible can help replenish the fluids that you lose during your trips to the bathroom. If you prefer sports drinks, dilute them with water before sipping. The added sugar can aggravate an already bad case of diarrhea. For the same reason, avoid fruit juices and sodas while you are in the "elimination phase" of food poisoning.
2. Regain Strength With Bland Foods
When the initial phase of food poisoning ends and you are no longer vomiting or having diarrhea, you will most likely be exhausted and perhaps a little hungry. Slowly regain your strength with small amounts of very bland foods. Clear broth, crackers, dry toast are good choices to begin with. If your stomach can handle it, move on to rice, potatoes, plain baked chicken and bananas. Refrain from foods and drinks that are high in sugar, fat or caffeine during this time. If you feel nauseous at any time, stop eating and give yourself more time to heal.
3. Treating Bacterial Food Poisoning
Food poisoning can be caused by either a virus that runs its course or a bacterial infection. If you've been unable to keep food down for a full day or have a fever above 101 degrees F, call your doctor or have someone take you to the hospital. If you test positive for E. coli, salmonella, listeria or other food-borne bacteria, you'll need to undergo a treatment of antibiotics. Listeria can be especially dangerous to pregnant women, so the sooner it's caught, the better the outcome will be for both mother and baby.
