What to eat when you have the stomach flu  

Overview

When dealing with the stomach flu, consume bland, easily digestible foods like bananas, rice, applesauce, toast, and clear broth. These options can help calm your stomach and prevent irritation. Avoid dairy, fatty, spicy, or sugary foods. Start with small servings, stay hydrated, and gradually return to your regular diet as you recover. Eating gently supports healing and reduces discomfort. Stomach flu, also known as viral gastroenteritis, is a common illness that causes inflammation in the stomach and intestines, leading to nausea, loose stools, vomiting, abdominal pain, and sometimes fever. In Australia, it's estimated that there are approximately 17.2 million cases of gastroenteritis each year1. During this time, the digestive system becomes very sensitive and eating inappropriate foods may aggravate symptoms or delay recovery. Hence, knowing what to eat during stomach flu is important to calm the digestive tract, maintain hydration, and promote healing.

What is the stomach flu?

The stomach flu, also referred to as viral gastroenteritis, is an illness that leads to inflammation in the stomach and intestines. It is typically caused by viruses such as norovirus or rotavirus and can be spread through tainted food, water, or contact with infected individuals. Common signs include nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, abdominal cramps, and occasionally fever or body aches. Despite being called "flu," it is not related to influenza.

What to eat when you have gastro (stomach flu)

When you have gastroenteritis (or a stomach virus), it's important to focus on gentle foods that are easy on your digestive system and help prevent further irritation. Here are some foods to consider:

1. Clear liquids

• Water: It is important to maintain adequate hydration; however, it is advisable to consume small sips to avoid overwhelming the stomach.
• Broth: Both chicken and vegetable broths are soothing options that can assist in maintaining hydration levels.
• Electrolyte drinks: Beverages such as coconut water, oral rehydration solutions (ORS), and sports drinks can effectively replenish lost electrolytes. Beware that not all sports drinks are suitable due to their high sugar content and may actually worsen diarrhoea.
• Herbal teas: Peppermint and ginger teas are beneficial for settling the stomach and alleviating nausea.

2. BRAT diet

The BRAT diet is frequently recommended for individuals experiencing stomach disturbances due to its bland composition, but it lacks nutrients and may not be sufficient for prolonged diarrhoea. Current guidelines favour a broader range of easily digestible, nutrient-rich foods such as plain chicken, boiled potatoes, or steamed vegetables.

• Bananas: These fruits are easily digestible and provide potassium necessary for replacing lost electrolytes.
• Rice: Plain white rice is gentle on the stomach and is a source of easily digestible carbohydrates.
• Applesauce: This mild food offers fibre while being gentle on the stomach.
• Toast: Plain, dry toast is generally well-tolerated and provides a starchy, bland food option that is unlikely to irritate the stomach.

3. Other foods

1. Plain crackers or biscuits: Saltines and other plain crackers are light, bland, and easily digestible, making them suitable choices for individuals with an upset stomach.
2. Boiled potatoes: Plain, boiled potatoes, devoid of butter or seasoning, are soft and easy to digest.
3. Plain, skinless chicken or turkey: Lean meats such as skinless chicken or turkey serve as excellent protein sources and are typically easier to digest when prepared simply (boiled or baked).
4. Plain oatmeal or porridge: Oatmeal, when unaccompanied by added sugar or heavy toppings, is gentle on the stomach and offers fibre to aid in regulating digestion.
5. Steamed vegetables: Mild vegetables, including carrots and zucchini, can be cooked to enhance their digestibility.

Note: This information is for educational purposes only. You should consult a doctor or medical practitioner before attempting home remedies to ensure they are safe for your specific condition.

Foods and drinks to avoid during the stomach flu

When you have gastroenteritis or a stomach virus, avoiding foods and drinks that can irritate your digestive system or worsen symptoms is essential. Here's a list of what not to eat or drink:

1. Fatty food: It is advisable to refrain from consuming foods that are greasy or fried, including items such as French fries, fried chicken, and hamburgers. These types of food are challenging to digest and have the potential to irritate the stomach, exacerbating symptoms such as nausea, diarrhoea, and bloating.
2. Dairy products: Dairy items, including milk, cheese, butter, ice cream, and yogurt, should be avoided. When the stomach is upset, these products may pose digestion difficulties and can contribute to an escalation of symptoms, particularly in the case of temporary lactose intolerance.
3. Spicy foods: Spicy foods, such as curries, hot sauces, and various spicy seasonings, may irritate the stomach lining. This irritation can result in heightened discomfort, increased gas production, and diarrhoea.
4. Caffeinated beverages: Caffeinated beverages, including coffee, tea, energy drinks, and sodas, should be minimised. Caffeine can irritate both the stomach and intestines and acts as a diuretic, which can lead to dehydration, further aggravating symptoms.
5. Alcoholic beverages: The consumption of alcohol, including beer, wine, and spirits, is not recommended. Alcohol can irritate the stomach lining, promote inflammation, and contribute to dehydration, which may intensify feelings of nausea and increase instances of vomiting.
6. Sugary food and drinks: Avoid foods and beverages that contain high levels of sugar, such as sodas, fruit juices, candies, and pastries. Excessive sugar intake can worsen diarrhoea by attracting water into the intestines, thereby increasing fluid loss.
7. Acidic foods and drinks: Acidic items, such as citrus fruits (oranges, lemons), tomatoes, pickles, and vinegar, should be limited in the diet. These foods can irritate the stomach lining, and during episodes of gastroenteritis, this irritation may lead to additional discomfort.
8. Carbonated beverages: Carbonated beverages, including sodas and sparkling water, are discouraged. These drinks can lead to bloating, increased gas, and general discomfort, worsening existing symptoms.
9. High-fibre foods: Although dietary fibre is generally beneficial, consuming raw vegetables, beans, whole grains, and cruciferous vegetables (such as broccoli and cabbage) may be problematic during episodes of gastroenteritis, as these foods can result in gas, bloating, and diarrhoea.
10. Nuts and seeds: Nuts and seeds, including almonds, peanuts, and sunflower seeds, may also pose digestion challenges and could exacerbate bloating and discomfort, particularly when the stomach is inflamed.

Stick with bland, low-fat foods until you start feeling better.

How long should you follow a recovery diet after stomach flu?

You should maintain a recovery diet for approximately 2 to 3 days following the stomach flu, or until your digestive system feels completely normal. Start with bland, low-fat, and easily digestible options like toast, rice, bananas, and applesauce. Gradually reintroduce more complex foods as your appetite increases and symptoms improve. If nausea, diarrhoea, or abdominal pain recur, continue bland foods and stay hydrated.

When to consult a doctor for stomach flu

You should reach out to a doctor for stomach flu if your symptoms persist beyond three days, or if you're unable to hold down any fluids for more than 24 hours. Seek medical attention if you exhibit signs of dehydration, such as a dry mouth, dizziness, dark urine, or scant urination. Other warning indicators include a high fever (over 101°F or 38.3°C), blood in vomit or stool, or intense abdominal pain. Infants, young children, older adults, and individuals with weakened immune systems are at greater risk and should consult a online doctors or medical practitioner sooner if symptoms are severe or not improving. Prompt medical attention can help avert complications and ensure effective management. Consult an online doctor if you need quick medical advice, online scripts, or online medical cert for work. Note: If you experience severe, worsening, or life-threatening symptoms, call 000 immediately or attend your nearest Emergency Department (ED)

How can telehealth with an online doctor help?

Telehealth services enable consultations with healthcare professionals regarding symptoms related to gastrointestinal infections, thus allowing patients to address their conditions from the comfort of their homes. Hola Health's telehealth platform presents an effective and accessible approach to managing gastroenteritis and its associated symptoms. Our services are available 24 hours a day and offer a variety of advantages, which include:

• Telehealth appointments: Patients can connect with qualified medical practitioners to discuss symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, and abdominal discomfort. The online doctor or medical practitioner will evaluate the patient's condition and provide professional recommendations regarding management alternatives and management techniques.
• Online prescriptions: When medication is necessary, such as anti-nausea agents or rehydration solutions, the doctor or medical practitioners can issue prescriptions online following clinical assessment and if clinically appropriate. These prescriptions may be obtained at a local pharmacy or delivered directly to the patient's residence on the same day.
• Doctor referrals: Should further examination prove necessary, the doctor or medical practitioner can provide a referral for diagnostic testing or a consultation with a gastroenterologist (if clinically appropriate).
• Online medical certificates: In cases where symptoms necessitate that the patient rest at home or take leave from work, Hola Health's telehealth service can issue a same-day or multi-day medical certificate online (if clinically appropriate), tailored to the patient's specific requirements.

  Note: Telehealth is a convenient option for appropriate healthcare needs and can complement in-person healthcare. However, telehealth may not be suitable for every condition. Some health concerns may require an in-person assessment, physical examination, testing, or emergency care.

Conclusion

In conclusion, managing gastroenteritis requires staying hydrated and consuming easily digestible foods, such as the BRAT diet. Gradually incorporate simple foods while avoiding irritating foods, such as fatty, spicy, and dairy-heavy foods. Proper dietary choices can help minimise discomfort, prevent dehydration, and support a quicker recovery.

FAQs

What should I eat if I have the stomach flu?

If you have stomach flu, eat bland, easily digestible foods like bananas, toast, white rice, applesauce, and clear liquids like water or broth. Avoid dairy, spicy, fatty, and sugary foods.

Is it safe to eat when you have the stomach flu?

Yes, it is safe to eat during a bout of stomach flu, but it's best to start with small amounts of bland, easily digestible foods once vomiting stops. Focus on hydration and gradually reintroduce gentle foods such as bananas, applesauce, rice, and toast.

What drinks help during stomach flu recovery?

During stomach flu recovery, helpful drinks include:

• Water
• Clear broths
• Herbal teas
• Electrolyte drinks
• Oral rehydration solutions (ORS)

Should I eat solid food during the stomach flu?

It's best to wait until vomiting has subsided and you can keep liquids down before introducing solid foods. Begin with bland, easy-to-digest foods like the BRAT diet (bananas, rice, applesauce, toast). Gradually expand the range of solid foods as your stomach tolerates them. Avoid greasy, fatty, or spicy foods until fully recovered.

Can kids follow the same stomach flu eating guidelines?

Yes, children can follow similar stomach flu eating guidelines, but with a few adjustments. Begin by giving clear liquids such as water, diluted electrolyte solutions, or broth to keep them hydrated. Once vomiting stops, you can introduce mild foods like the BRAT diet (bananas, rice, applesauce, toast). For younger children, smaller, more frequent meals may be easier to tolerate. Always avoid dairy, sugary, or fatty foods until they have fully recovered. If symptoms persist or worsen, consult a doctor or medical practitioner.

How long should I stick to a bland diet after stomach flu?

You should follow a bland diet for about 1-2 days after stomach flu symptoms subside. Once you can tolerate bland foods without discomfort, you can gradually start reintroducing more regular foods. If you still have nausea or stomach discomfort, continue the bland diet until you feel better. Always listen to your body and avoid rushing back to regular eating too quickly.