How to easily treat Stomach Flu (viral gastroenteritis)

When people think of the flu they generally associate it with the typical cold and flu that comes about each winter, but as our seasons change and we move into the hotter Australian summer a different flu is very common at this time of year. Stomach Flu, or Viral Gastroenteritis as it is rightly called, is a common infection of the stomach and intestines that results in vomiting and diarrhoea. Other symptoms may include nausea, fever, abdominal pain, headache, and muscle aches. Dehydration can follow.

It is passed on quite easily by a virus and has a very fast onset and generally only lasts about 24-48 hours.

Antibiotics won't help because it is a viral stomach infection. You can barely keep anything down, so 'quick fix' tablets from the chemist seem like a waste of money. Here are some home remedies for the stomach flu will ease the symptoms and speed up recovery.

1. Acupuncture

Of course I am going to mention Acupuncture as our number 1 tip! However, if you feel the onset of Stomach Flu or are experiencing it do not hesitate to call your Acupuncturist. A treatment of Acupuncture and Herbs will very quickly resolve symptoms. Treatment principle will focus on clearing heat, dispelling dampness and strengthening our body's Qi, which will help our ability to fight disease.

2. Rest

Quite an obvious statement, the symptoms associated with Stomach Flu are there to tell our body to slow down! The best thing you can do for your body is to sleep, rest and take it very easy while you fight off the virus.

3. Stay Hydrated!

It is very easy to get dehydrated when you have Gastro, and constantly drinking water can be the furthest thing from your mind when you are constantly running to the bathroom. Between having tiny sips of water sucking on ice cubes is a good way to keep up your hydration.

If you have on-going diarrhoea you may want to switch from drinking water to drinking something more substantial. Drinking an electrolyte based drink or a watery broth is a good way to gently give your body some sustenance.

4. Things to eat

Bananas

Easy to digest and high in potassium. They are also high in pectin, which is a fiber that helps ease diarrhoea.

Ginger

Combining ginger into your food or drink is a good way to naturally sooth nausea. Ginger contains anti inflammatory properties which makes it a powerful digestive aid.

Pretzels and Crackers

High is sodium, these salty snacks help your body retain water to improve dehydration.

Bland Foods

You may still eat higher protein foods such as chicken, rice, vegetables. Small portions may be easier on your stomach and will give you an extra boost of energy.

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