What to Eat, Drink, and Avoid When You Have the Stomach Flu

 The stomach flu is a highly contagious illness that affects the stomach and intestines. The stomach flu spreads through contact with infected people or contaminated surfaces. It is not related to something “bad” or “contaminated” that you ate. 

Despite its misleading name, the stomach flu has no connection to the “flu” or influenza. 

Instead, viruses like norovirus and rotavirus are the usual culprits. Symptoms often include stomach cramps, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, fever, and body aches. If you have gastroenteritis, it typically lasts between 1-3 days.

When you’re battling this unpleasant illness, the right foods and fluids can help ease discomfort and speed up recovery. At Desert Palm Urgent Care, we are ready to help you feel better.  

Here are some foods and drinks that are less likely to aggravate your symptoms. Also, below, we provide details on when you need to seek medical care. 

Gentle foods to settle your stomach

Your digestive system becomes especially sensitive during the stomach flu. Some foods intensify symptoms, so choosing the right ones is important. Stick to bland, easy-to-digest options such as:

• Bananas
• Dry toast
• Plain rice
• Applesauce
• Crackers
• Plain potatoes

As you regain strength, gradually reintroduce lean proteins like skinless chicken, scrambled eggs, or bone broth to help restore energy levels.

Hydration is essential for recovery

Dehydration is a major concern with vomiting and diarrhea. Be diligent about drinking enough fluids like: 

• Water
• Ginger or peppermint tea to ease nausea
• Electrolyte drinks (sports drinks)
• Clear broths

If keeping liquids down is challenging, try sucking on ice chips or popsicles to replenish fluids gradually.

Foods and drinks to avoid

Certain foods and beverages can irritate your digestive system and prolong your symptoms. While recovering, steer clear of:

• Dairy products, which can be harder to digest
• Greasy, fatty foods that are difficult to digest
• Caffeine, which can dehydrate and upset the stomach
• Alcohol, which worsens dehydration and nausea
• Spicy foods that can further irritate your stomach
• Sugary drinks, which can make diarrhea worse

When in doubt, stick to mild, easily digestible foods until you feel better.

When to seek medical help

Most cases of the stomach flu improve with rest and hydration. However, some symptoms warrant a doctor’s visit. Get medical attention if you experience:

• Severe dehydration (dry mouth, dizziness, little to no urination)
• A high fever (above 102°F)
• Blood in your diarrhea or vomit
• Intense abdominal pain
• Symptoms persisting beyond a week

If you’re struggling to recover or have concerns about your symptoms, our urgent care team at Palm Desert Urgent Care is here to help. We specialize in internal medicine and can provide a personalized treatment plan to get you back on your feet faster. Call today or use the online tool to make your appointment.