Stomach Flu Remedy
The Quickest Remedy for Stomach Flu
A stomach flu remedy can be very useful when you or your child has come down with the illness, and it is good to know the symptoms of stomach flu before you head to the doctor's office. When you aren't feeling so good, remember that the flu incubation period is short and you should recover soon.
The stomach flu is something we are all familiar with. It is that dreaded sickness that makes you vomit constantly, feeling weak and unable to eat, and always nauseous.
Chad K.
Diarrhea, abdominal pain, the chills, sweating, and fever are also signs of the stomach flu. However, this illness actually isn't a strain of influenza.
It is called Viral gastroenteritis, and is caused by a variety of virus strains including rotavirus, norovirus, adenovirus, astrovirus, and calicivirus. People who have picked up one of these viruses feel the effects as their stomach and intestines become inflamed.
The biggest threat to those suffering through the stomach flu is the likelihood of becoming dehydrated. Because one usually begins having diarrhea and vomiting for a consistent 3-6 days, the body loses a lot of its water and can quickly become dehydrated.
Those with the stomach flu also rarely want to eat or drink, which can make the condition even worse. Water and electrolytes need to be replenished constantly for the body to heal.
Justin Leonard
To begin healing from these viruses, it is important to begin replacing fluids at the first signs of sickness.
Adults should sip small amounts of water and an electrolyte replacement, such as Gatorade, in order to resist vomiting but still hydrate the body. Sprite may also be a good option, as the carbonation may help settle the stomach.
For children, water and an electrolyte supplement can help keep dehydration at bay. There are several types of electrolyte popsicles and drinks available just for children at most grocery stores.
Another good stomach flu remedy to keep hydrated with is green tea with mint leaves. This hot brew will help your body absorb lost water quickly, and help settle any nauseous feelings. It is a good idea to continuously, yet in small quantities, drink as much as you while you are ill in order to recover quickest.
Viruses cannot be treated with antibiotics or any other medications, so do the best you can to aid your body's natural recovery. Be sure to avoid caffeine, alcohol, dairy, and sugar, as these will likely cause even worse diarrhea or irritate your intestinal system further.
Getting a lot of rest and eating well are also important to a speedy recovery. Allow yourself time to lie on the couch or in bed, and feel free to read books and magazines or watch TV. When you feel slightly better, try to eat small amounts of bland foods.
Many people advocate the “Brat Diet” as a stomach flu remedy: Bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast. These foods are less likely to irritate already swollen organs, and also tend to promote constipation, so as to counteract diarrhea. In reality, any healthy foods you can keep down while ill will do your body good.
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