Using the BRAT Diet to Overcome the Stomach Flu
When you are suffering from the stomach flu it seems you will never feel better. Your stomach hurts, there is nausea and vomiting, plus you probably have diarrhea to boot. It is not where you would wish to be and all you want is to feel better fast! Unfortunately, most stomach disorders there is nothing to do but wait it out. Your body has a remarkable ability to heal itself and so you will find relief within a few days. However, there are things you can do to make the suffering a little less.
One of those things is to use the BRAT diet to help your body heal. While you are having digestive distress, you want to stay away from foods that can cause further irritation. Things like spicy, greasy or very rich foods are not good when you are having stomach issues. Usually this isn't a problem because you don't feel like eating much at all! However, you should try to eat something so your body can stay strong. That is why the BRAT diet is a good one to follow. It consists of bland food that isn't hard to digest and they won't cause further irritation.
BRAT stands for Bananas, Rice, Applesauce, & Toast. These foods are very easy to digest and can help you overcome diarrhea. In addition, this diet helps your body maintain some strength and fuel for fighting. As you start to feel better you can add other foods like broth and tea.
The most vital thing you can do when you are suffering from any type of stomach distress is to keep yourself hydrated. When you are sick to your stomach you lose a lot of fluids so it is important to keep replacing them. This is especially important if you are suffering from diarrhea.
It is important to stay away from sugary sodas and sports drinks when you are sick. Even though these may seem to rehydrate you, they are overloading your sensitive system with sugar. This does not help you get feeling better in fact it can make you feel worse! The best things to drink are water, pure fruit juices and specially made hydrating fluids such as Pedialyte. These types of specialty liquids can be purchased at most pharmacies.
It is no fun to be sick. You just want to feel better fast! Even though there is no cure for most stomach ailments, you can feel better as you heal by following these simple tips.
Cathy is a freelance writer who enjoys gardening and camping with her family. She loves to have family parties at her home and her rolling kitchen cart helps her prepare and serve with ease. Cathy enjoys the convenience her portable kitchen island to give her more space as she cooks!
Article Source: ArticlesBase.com
