What to eat when you have a stomach virus?

Stomach virus, also known as viral gastroenteritis, refers to an infection that affects the stomach and intestines. Typically caused by several different types of viruses, including norovirus, rotavirus, adenovirus, and astrovirus, stomach viruses are highly contagious and can spread easily from person to person, often through contaminated food, water, or surfaces. Following subsections offer a detailed look at the condition, including the ideal food intake when infected. This helps answer the common question among individuals – What to eat when you have a stomach virus?

Symptoms of stomach virus

Common symptoms of stomach virus include the following:

• Nausea: Feeling queasy or having an upset stomach is a common symptom. It may be accompanied by a sensation of wanting to vomit.
• Vomiting: In many cases, individuals with stomach virus experience episodes of vomiting. This can lead to further dehydration and discomfort.
• Diarrhea: Watery or loose stools, often occurring multiple times a day, are a typical symptom of viral gastroenteritis. Diarrhea can contribute to dehydration.
• Abdominal cramps: Pain or cramping in the abdominal area is common during a stomach virus infection. It may range from mild to severe.
• Fever: Some individuals may develop a low-grade fever, although not everyone with a stomach virus experiences this symptom.
• Fatigue and muscle aches: Feeling tired and having generalized body aches are possible symptoms, although they are typically mild.
• Headache: Some people may experience a headache as a result of a stomach virus infection.

Stomach viruses are typically self-limiting in nature, and resolve on their own within a few days to a week. However, the condition can cause significant discomfort and dehydration, particularly in young children, older adults, and individuals with weakened immune systems.

What are the treatment options for stomach virus

Treatment for a stomach virus typically focuses on managing symptoms and preventing dehydration. This may include rest, drinking the right fluids, and avoiding solid foods until the stomach has settled. In severe cases or for individuals at higher risk of complications, medical attention may be necessary to monitor and manage symptoms. Stomach viruses is not to be confused with bacterial infections or other causes of gastrointestinal symptoms.

Treatment for a stomach virus, also known as viral gastroenteritis, is typically aimed to alleviate discomfort and support the body’s natural healing process. Here are some commonly recommended treatment options:

• Getting plenty of rest is important to allow your body to recover and heal.
• Intake of plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration caused by vomiting and diarrhea. Sip small amounts of water, clear broths, electrolyte solutions, and sports drinks that contain electrolytes. Avoid drinks that can further irritate the stomach, including caffeinated or carbonated beverages, alcohol, and sugary drinks.
• Oral rehydration solutions, available over-the-counter, contain a balanced amount of water, sugar, and salts to help replace lost fluids and electrolytes. They are especially beneficial for children and individuals at higher risk of dehydration.
• Gradual re-introduction of fluids and food after vomiting has subsided. Individuals are advised to start with small sips of clear liquids, such as water, broth, or oral rehydration solutions. When tolerated, gradually introduce bland, low-fiber foods like rice, boiled potatoes, toast, and bananas. Avoid fatty, spicy, or greasy foods until your stomach has settled.
• Over-the-counter medications such as bismuth subsalicylate or loperamide may help reduce diarrhea symptoms. It is important to consult a healthcare professional before taking any medications, especially for children or individuals with pre-existing medical conditions.
• Individuals are to ensure high hygiene, specifically washing hands thoroughly with soap and water after using the bathroom and before handling food to prevent the spread of the virus.

In severe cases or for individuals at higher risk of complications, medical attention may be necessary. This is especially true for infants, young children, older adults, and individuals with weakened immune systems. Antibiotics are not effective against viral infections, including stomach viruses, and are only useful in treating bacterial infections. Antiviral medications may be prescribed in rare cases of severe viral gastroenteritis caused by specific viruses.

What to eat when you have a stomach virus?

Individuals affected with a stomach virus are to intake the right diet to alleviate symptoms and fasten the pace of recovery. Here are some dietary recommendations on what to eat when down with a stomach virus:

• Clear liquids to stay hydrated and give the stomach a chance to settle. This includes water, clear broths, herbal tea, and electrolyte solutions available over-the-counter.
• Bland, low-fiber foods can be introduced after the stomach tolerates clear liquids. These foods are gentle on the stomach and easy to digest. Examples include – Plain rice, Boiled or baked potatoes without skin, Toast, Saltine crackers, Cooked or canned fruits, Bananas, Applesauce
• After the individual begins to tolerate bland foods, lean proteins can be added to the diet. This includes skinless chicken, turkey, or fish. Boiled, baked, or grilled preparations are a better option than fried or heavily seasoned options.
• Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that restore the balance of gut microbiota. Studies suggest that probiotics may help alleviate symptoms and reduce the duration of viral gastroenteritis. Probiotic-rich foods include yogurt and fermented foods like sauerkraut or kimchi.
• While recovering from a stomach virus, avoid foods that irritate the stomach or worsen symptoms. These include fatty, greasy, spicy, or heavily seasoned foods, as well as caffeine, alcohol, carbonated beverages, and foods high in fiber.

What can one drink when you have a stomach virus?

When infected with a stomach virus or viral gastroenteritis, individuals are to stay hydrated to prevent dehydration caused by vomiting and diarrhea. Here are some recommended drinks that can help:

• Sip small amounts of water frequently throughout the day. It’s essential to maintain hydration and replace lost fluids. Room temperature or slightly warm water may be easier on the stomach than very cold water.
• Oral rehydration solutions or electrolyte drinks, available over-the-counter, can help replenish fluids and electrolytes lost during vomiting and diarrhea. These solutions contain a balanced amount of water, sugar, and salts. Examples include Pedialyte, Gatorade, or other similar products.
• Sip on clear broths such as chicken or vegetable broth. These can provide hydration and some nourishment without overloading your stomach.
• Mild, non-caffeinated herbal teas like chamomile or peppermint tea can help soothe the stomach and provide hydration. Avoid adding milk or sweeteners, which can aggravate symptoms for some individuals.
• Coconut water is a natural source of electrolytes and can help replenish fluids and provide some essential nutrients. Choose plain, unsweetened coconut water without added flavors.
• Ginger has been traditionally used to alleviate nausea and stomach discomfort. Prepare ginger tea by steeping fresh ginger slices in hot water. Allow it to cool slightly before drinking.

Sucking on ice chips can help keep one hydrated and provide some relief.

Sarah Thompson

Education: Master’s in Public Health (MPH) from the University of Michigan. Experience: Over 8 years of experience writing for health and wellness websites, including WebMD and Healthline, specializing in women’s health and nutrition.