Diet tips for handling vomiting and diarrhea

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Diarrhea and vomiting are signs that the body is attempting to eliminate the underlying cause. For instance, vomiting can help expel toxins responsible for food poisoning, while in cases of gastrointestinal flu, it aids in purging the stomach of the virus. Various factors such as viral, bacterial, and parasitic infections, exposure to toxins, consumption of contaminated foods, certain medications, and ingestion of challenging-to-digest foods can trigger vomiting and diarrhea. While these symptoms naturally subside, they can lead to dehydration, posing a significant risk.

How to control vomiting and diarrhea through diet?

1. Stay hydrated to recover from vomiting and diarrhea

• Ensure adequate hydration by consuming purified water to replenish lost fluids.
• Herbal teas such as chamomile, fenugreek, or ginger can alleviate nausea. Opt for non-carbonated ginger ale.
• Avoid beverages that may irritate the stomach and worsen diarrhea, such as coffee, black tea, caffeinated drinks, soda, and alcohol, which can exacerbate dehydration.

2. Eat more fiber

• Combat diarrhea by incorporating foods like brown rice, barley, whole grains, and fresh vegetable juices into your diet. Carrot and celery juices are particularly beneficial. The fiber in these foods aids water absorption, promoting firmer stools and relieving diarrhea.
• Avoid greasy and spicy foods, acidic items like orange juice and tomatoes, as well as chocolate, ice cream, and eggs.
• For a fiber-rich yet bland option, add grains to a chicken broth or miso soup. Ensure the soup volume is at least twice that of the cereal (e.g., cook 120 ml of barley in 240 ml to 480 ml of chicken broth).

3. Supplement with probiotics

• Incorporate probiotic supplements into your routine, following the manufacturer’s or healthcare professional’s guidance.
• This enhances the balance of microflora in the digestive tract, fighting disease-causing bacteria.
• Healthy probiotic sources such as yogurt with live bacteria, yeast (Saccharomyces boulardii), Lactobacillus rhamnosus, Lactobacillus acidophilus, and Bifidobacterium.

4. Eat stomach-friendly foods

• Opt for non-irritating foods when your appetite is low.
• Salty crackers can alleviate nausea, while the BRAT diet—bananas, rice, apple puree, and whole-grain toast—helps firm stools and replenish lost nutrients.
• Avoid dairy products, as they may worsen diarrhea. If vomiting persists, refrain from solid foods and consult a doctor.

5. Drink tea

• Ginger or herbal teas can soothe the stomach, with some having antibacterial and antiviral properties.
• Choose non-carbonated ginger teas made with real ginger. Safe for pregnant women, lactating women, and children over two years old.
• Consider teas from blackberry leaves, raspberry leaves, bilberries, or carob, but avoid bilberry tea if on blood thinners or diabetic.
• For chamomile or fenugreek tea, add 15 ml to 240 ml boiling water and consume 5 to 6 cups daily.

Conclusion

In conclusion, managing vomiting and diarrhea through diet involves staying hydrated, incorporating fiber-rich foods, supplementing with probiotics, choosing stomach-friendly options, and soothing the stomach with tea. Prioritize hydration, opt for easily digestible foods, and seek medical attention if symptoms persist. Simple dietary adjustments can aid recovery and minimize discomfort during episodes of vomiting and diarrhea.