diet in viral gastroenteritis
During viral gastroenteritis, the primary focus should be on hydration and gentle digestion. Start with clear fluids like water, broth, or diluted juice, and gradually introduce bland, easy-to-digest foods like toast, crackers, rice, and bananas. Avoid fatty, spicy, or highly processed foods, and limit caffeine, alcohol, and dairy products until symptoms improve.
What to eat:
Clear Fluids
- Clear Fluids: Water, broths, diluted fruit juice, herbal tea, and sports drinks (non-caffeinated) are good choices to replenish lost fluids and electrolytes.
Bland, Easy-to-Digest Foods:
- Carbohydrates: Toast, crackers, rice, plain noodles, and mashed potatoes are gentle on the stomach.
- Fruits: Bananas, applesauce, and cooked apples are well-tolerated.
- Proteins: Chicken and lean meats prepared with minimal fat (baked, roasted, or grilled) are good options.
Other Options:
- Gelatin: Can help soothe the stomach.
- Low-fat yogurt: If tolerated, low-fat yogurt can be a source of probiotics.
- Cooked vegetables: Boiled or steamed vegetables are a good source of nutrients.
What to avoid:
- Fatty Foods: Avoid fried foods, high-fat meats, and greasy snacks.
- Spicy and Highly Seasoned Foods: These can irritate the digestive system.
- Alcohol and Caffeine: These can dehydrate the body and worsen symptoms.
- Sugary Drinks: While some sugar is needed for rehydration, overly sugary drinks can worsen diarrhea.
- Acidic Foods: Citrus fruits and tomatoes can irritate the stomach.
- Dairy Products: If you are lactose intolerant or find that dairy worsens your symptoms, avoid it until you feel better.
Important Considerations:
- Hydration: Focus on drinking plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration.
- Small, Frequent Meals: Eat small portions of food throughout the day rather than large meals.
- Listen to Your Body: Stop eating if you feel nauseous or if your symptoms worsen.
- Consult a Doctor: If you have severe symptoms, such as severe dehydration, bloody diarrhea, or high fever, seek medical attention.
- For Infants and Children: Infants should continue to breastfeed or formula as usual. Parents should offer an oral rehydration solution (ORS) to help replace lost fluids and electrolytes.