Food poisoning, also known as food-borne illness, results from of eating foods contaminated with infectious organisms, such as bacteria, viruses or parasites. Symptoms of food poisoning include abdominal cramping, nausea, vomiting, fatigue, fever and diarrhea, which vary in intensity and usually last from one to 10 days. Food poisoning symptoms may not require medical attention. If your symptoms are severe or long-lasting, seek guidance from your doctor.
Fluid Replenishment
Food poisoning can cause dehydration and electrolyte imbalances, particularly if you experience vomiting or diarrhea. According to the Mayo Clinic, most food poisoning symptoms will resolve themselves naturally over the course of several days. However, special attention should be paid to re-hydrating and restoring electrolytes, such as sodium, potassium, magnesium and chloride, while symptoms are active and once they have passed. If you experience food poisoning, drink plenty of fluids, such as water, juices and electrolyte-containing beverages, such as Gatorade. People who experience severe dehydration may require intravenous hydration, where fluids are restored in a hospital setting.
Medication
In some cases, medications are prescribed to treat food poisoning. If your symptoms are severe or causes by particular bacteria, your doctor may prescribe antibiotics, medications designed to fight bacterial infection. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC), in some cases, doctors may prescribe apomorphine or ipecac syrup, substances that induce cause vomiting and help rid the body of toxins. This is particularly true if the toxin is potentially life-threatening. Antitoxin, which neutralizes certain toxins, may be prescribed in the first several days. Over-the-counter (OTC) pain, swelling and fever remedies may help reduce symptoms of mild to moderate food poisoning.
Nutritional Remedies
Certain foods may help reduce symptoms related to food poisoning. According to UMMC, foods containing probiotics--healthy bacteria that fight bacteria in the body--may prove useful. Yogurt, kefir and fermented miso are examples of probiotic-rich foods. In addition, 2 tsp. apple cider vinegar added to 1 cup warm water is a traditional food poisoning remedy. Though the remedy lacks scientific evidence, UMMC suggests that the vinegar may provide useful properties. Lastly, Vitamin A may be helpful toward treating or preventing food poisoning caused by salmonella. Sweet potatoes, carrots, liver, carrots, mango, cantaloupe, milk, egg yolks and mozzarella cheese are valuable sources of Vitamin A.
