Updated: September 13, 2021
Originally Published: March 5, 2021
This article has been reviewed by Dr. Emily Carter, MD, a board-certified pediatrician with extensive experience in family health at Wellness Pediatrics.
When someone in your home contracts the stomach flu, it can throw the entire household into disarray. Whether you’re also feeling unwell or just trying to care for a family member, the situation can be quite uncomfortable. The stomach flu, with its relentless nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, is particularly challenging, often leaving sufferers yearning for relief.
The symptoms of the stomach flu can significantly impact appetite, making it hard for anyone to eat. However, completely avoiding food for an extended period isn’t advisable. As a caregiver, it’s crucial to understand which foods are suitable for someone dealing with these distressing symptoms. Here’s what you need to consider when deciding what to eat during a bout of stomach flu.
Understanding Stomach Flu
Commonly mistaken for the seasonal flu, stomach flu actually refers to viral gastroenteritis, an intestinal infection. According to health experts, typical symptoms include watery diarrhea, stomach cramps, nausea, vomiting, and sometimes fever. These symptoms usually last a couple of days but can persist for up to ten days in severe cases.
The stomach flu is often spread through contact with infected individuals or through contaminated food and water sources. It’s essential to seek medical attention if vomiting persists for over two days or if there are signs of dehydration.
Foods to Avoid During Stomach Flu
Before we delve into what you can eat, it’s important to highlight what to steer clear of. Certain foods and beverages can exacerbate symptoms. The following should be avoided:
- Caffeinated drinks such as coffee and certain sodas
- High-fat foods, including fried items and fast food
- Sugary beverages and certain fruit juices
- Dairy products containing lactose
- Alcoholic beverages
- Tomato-based and acidic foods
- Spicy or heavily seasoned dishes
- Processed foods
What to Eat When You Have Stomach Flu
While it might be instinctive to encourage someone to eat regardless of their state, this is not the best approach during a stomach flu episode. Experts advocate for focusing on hydration and gentle reintroduction to food. Dr. Sarah Jenkins, a family health specialist, advises against forcing food intake, emphasizing that rest and hydration should be the priorities.
When the affected individual is ready to eat, consider starting with:
- Hydrating liquids like water, sports drinks, or clear, caffeine-free sodas
- Light broths
- Oral rehydration solutions rich in electrolytes, especially for kids
- Ice chips
- Saltine crackers
- Plain toast
- Bland chicken with rice or just rice
- Gelatin desserts
- Bananas and complex carbs, like potatoes and whole grains
If nausea returns or vomiting occurs again, it’s best to return to hydrating liquids until symptoms improve. For more insights on managing stomach flu and recovery tips, check out this link to one of our other blog posts.
Summary
Dealing with the stomach flu is never pleasant, whether you’re directly affected or caring for a loved one. Understanding what to eat—and what to avoid—can help ease symptoms and support recovery. Focus on hydration and gradually reintroducing easy-to-digest foods to aid in the healing process.