Stomach flu, or viral gastroenteritis, is a common illness that can leave your gut health compromised. The symptoms of stomach flu include diarrhea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. Once the illness has passed, it is important to take steps to cleanse and restore your gut health. In this article, we will discuss how to cleanse your gut health after stomach flu and provide evidence-based references to support our discussion.
- Start with hydration
One of the most important steps to cleanse your gut health after stomach flu is to rehydrate your body. Diarrhea and vomiting can cause significant fluid loss, leading to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances. It is crucial to replenish your fluids to help your body restore its natural balance. Drinking water, sports drinks, or other fluids can help prevent dehydration and cleanse your gut.
- Eat a healthy diet
After recovering from stomach flu, it is important to eat a healthy diet that promotes gut health. Include plenty of fiber-rich fruits, vegetables, and whole grains in your diet. These foods are rich in prebiotics, which help promote the growth of beneficial bacteria in your gut. Eating fermented foods, such as yogurt, kimchi, and sauerkraut, can also help promote a healthy gut microbiome.
- Take probiotics
Probiotics are live microorganisms that can help restore the balance of bacteria in your gut microbiome. They can be found in fermented foods and probiotic supplements. Research suggests that probiotics can help reduce the duration and severity of diarrhea and other gastrointestinal symptoms caused by stomach flu (Guandalini et al., 2015). A systematic review by Schnadower et al. (2018) concluded that probiotics may be effective in reducing the duration and severity of acute infectious diarrhea in children.
- Consider herbal remedies
Herbs such as ginger, peppermint, and chamomile can help soothe your gut and promote healthy digestion. Ginger has been shown to help reduce inflammation in the gut and improve digestion (Grzanna et al., 2005). Peppermint can help ease abdominal pain and bloating, while chamomile can help calm the digestive system and reduce inflammation.
- Exercise
Exercise can help promote gut health by increasing blood flow and promoting healthy bowel movements. Aim to engage in moderate exercise for at least 30 minutes per day. Activities such as walking, cycling, and swimming can help promote gut health and overall well-being.
Conclusion
Stomach flu can leave your gut health compromised, but there are steps you can take to cleanse and restore your gut health. Hydration, a healthy diet, probiotics, herbal remedies, and exercise can all help promote a healthy gut microbiome. If you experience persistent symptoms or are concerned about your gut health, consult a healthcare professional.
- Grzanna, R., Lindmark, L., & Frondoza, C. G. (2005). Ginger—an herbal medicinal product with broad anti-inflammatory actions. Journal of Medicinal Food, 8(2), 125–132.
- Guandalini, S., Pensabene, L., Zikri, M. A., Dias, J. A., Casali, L. G., Hoekstra, H., & Kolacek, S. (2015). Lactobacillus GG administered in oral rehydration solution to children with acute diarrhea: A multicenter European trial. Journal of Pediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition, 60(2), 245–250.
- Schnadower, D., Tarr, P. I., Casper, T. C., Gorelick, M. H., Dean, J. M., O’Connell, K. J.,
