Stomach flu, medically known as gastroenteritis, can be an unpleasant experience that keeps you in bed for a few days. Although there is no medical treatment for curing the stomach flu, there are quite a few remedies that you can try to relieve those symptoms that are causing your misery. Here is a look at some of the most common and effective ones.
Stay hydrated.
When you have the stomach flu, it is important that you drink the right fluids in the right amount. Symptoms like vomiting and diarrhea result in a loss of vital bodily fluids, leading to dehydration. If keeping liquids down is difficult, try taking small sips of a drink periodically or chewing ice chips.
Clear liquids, such as water and broth, are the best fluids to drink when dealing with the stomach flu. Sports drinks help replace electrolytes during the stomach flu, but should only be consumed by adults and older children because of their high sugar content.
Avoid drinking caffeinated drinks and alcohol, which could further upset your stomach.
Eat bland foods.
Don’t force yourself to eat, but if you can eat, stick to bland food. Bananas, applesauce, and toast are good choices for an uneasy stomach, since they are easy to digest, contain carbohydrates for energy, and replenish lost nutrients.
It’s a good idea to avoid fatty, spicy, fibrous, foods and dairy for the duration of your stomach flu.
Try lemon remedies.
Lemon is a great remedy for stomach flu because of its acidic effects. The vitamin C found in the fruit, as well as its antimicrobial properties, boost your immune system to help fight off the virus.
Mix 1 to 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice in a glass of water and drink it 30 minutes before meals. Keep following this remedy until you recover.
Try ginger remedies.
Ginger is a remedy for stomach flu because of its anti-inflammatory properties. It can help with several of your symptoms, including indigestion, nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramps, and bloating.
To calm your stomach, chew a small piece of ginger root several times a day. Another way to use ginger is to make ginger tea. Boil one teaspoon of freshly chopped ginger in 1.5 cups of water. Cover and allow it to steep for 10 minutes. Sip slowly. Drink ginger tea a few times a day until you feel better.
Eat probiotic yogurt.
Probiotic yogurt is great, if you’re able to keep it down, because the bacteria found in it can bring your digestive system back into balance. Because you’re feeling nauseated, go with unsweetened, plain yogurt to avoid any unwanted side effects.
Drink chamomile tea.
Chamomile is another herb that is effective for treating stomach flu. Its antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory properties provide relief from diarrhea, abdominal cramping, and nausea.
Make chamomile tea by adding 2 or 3 teaspoons of dried chamomile flowers to a cup of hot water. Cover and let it steep for 10 to 15 minutes. Strain, and add a little honey and lemon juice. Chamomile tea should be consumed 3 to 4 times a day for 2 to 3 days.
