Stomach flu, medically known as viral gastroenteritis, is a contagious infection that affects the stomach and intestine, especially in monsoon. Even referred as a flu, it is not very similar to influenza. The most common cause for stomach flu is a virus but it is also caused due to bacteria and parasites.

Signs and symptoms of stomach flu include diarrhoea, vomiting, nausea, fever, headache, abdominal pain and lack of appetite.

There are certain foods and drinks that can calm the irritated tummy and relax the gastrointestinal tract. Evidence suggests that natural remedies are the best way to treat gastroenteritis. Try these natural home remedies to handle this stomach condition.

1.Ice Chips

The most common issue with stomach flu is severe dehydration but when viruses strike it can be very difficult to take water. Although adequate hydration is crucial but drinking plenty of fluids, in this case, may lead to nausea and vomiting. Ice chips come as rescue and help you gradually increase the intake of water.

2.Clear Fluids

Clear fluid comprises water and carbs that are easy on the tummy and aid in refueling the lost fluids. Some of the clear fluids are fresh fruit juices of apple, cranberry and grapefruit, tender coconut water and ORS drink.

3. BRAT Diet:

BRAT mean Bananas, Rice, Applesauce and Toast. These are the perfect foods that should be given for all patients suffering from gastroenteritis. It is bland and binding which aids to make the stool firmer. Moreover, bananas are rich in potassium and help in replacing the electrolytes lost from vomiting and diarrhea.

4.Tea

Decaffeinated teas are the best choice of beverage that aid in replacing the fluids lost. Peppermint tea can soothe the tummy, ginger tea may ease nausea and lemon tea offers vitamin C which combats infection. However, strictly stay away from caffeine as it can act as a diuretic which may result in losing more fluids.

5 Cinnamon And Turmeric

The concoction of cinnamon and turmeric are used extensively as a natural remedy in treating gastroenteritis. The host of plant compounds in these spices possesses strong antioxidant, anti-inflammatory properties which boost immunity and lower inflammation.

Food And Drinks To Avoid

Certain foods should be avoided as it may aggravate nausea, vomiting and diarrhea.

Caffeinated beverages disturb the digestion process and worsen diarrhea.

Fried Foods are hard to digest and may contribute to diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting.

Spicy foods may stimulate nausea and vomiting.

Sugary foods and beverages may worsen diarrhea.