Anyone is likely unprepared in the event that food poisoning occurs. The worst effects from ingesting something disagreeable to the body may manifest slowly, sometimes up to a few hours or even days.
Home Remedies for Food Poisoning
- If food poisoning has been diagnosed, complete bed rest is mandatory for the patient.
- Rehydrate the body with plenty of water, if the stomach can handle fluids.This is recommended especially for those suffering from diarrhea caused by the poisoning.
- Don’t be tempted to immediately take medicines to treat food poisoning. Oftentimes self-medication may work against the body’s natural defense mechanisms.
- Take extra precaution when taking pain relievers for the stomach cramps. It can bring discomfort to the gastrointestinal tract. Try using a hot-water bottle instead as instant relief.
- Sports drinks or fortified bottled water can also help battle dehydration when patient loses a significant amount of natural electrolytes due to vomiting.
What Are the Symptoms of Food Poisoning?
Possible cases of food poisoning can be detected through early warning signs.
- Vomiting
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Stomach cramps
- Fever
Most symptoms occur mildly and can be treated at home.
What to Eat After Food Poisoning
Patients may find it difficult to eat after bouts with food poisoning. However, the body needs to be replenished of its nutrient supply.
- Begin to return to normal diet with bland chicken soup.
- Add a spoonful of sugar to herbal teas, so that the body will be able to retain more of the fluids.
- Significant amount of potassium is lost during food poisoning. Eat bananas after the first 24 hours when feeling better.
- Avoid spicy, fried, salty or smoked foods in the meantime, until fully recovered.
- If vomiting ensues, drink ginger ale or lemon-lime soda for a supply of glucose. If the body doesn’t reject these drinks after an hour, eat saltine crackers slowly to let them settle in the stomach.
- Aside from bananas, patients can recover from food poisoning through eating applesauce, rice and toast, to help stop the diarrhea.
- Gradually return to normal eating habits by consuming mild soups, simple protein like skinless chicken breast, crackers and toast with light butter until complete recovery.