When you get hit by the stomach flu, also known as viral gastroenteritis, the delicate balance of microorganisms in your gut can get thrown out of whack, leaving you feeling depleted and uncomfortable.
Fear not! With the right approach, you can restore your gut health naturally and get back on track to feeling your best.
Understanding the Stomach Flu
According to medical experts, the stomach flu is caused by viruses (like norovirus and rotavirus) that cause inflammation in your gastrointestinal tract.
Common stomach flu symptoms include diarrhea, stomach cramps, nausea, vomiting, and fever. You may also feel fatigued and get headaches. Symptoms generally occur 1-3 days after infection.
How Do You Catch the Stomach Flu?
Most people get sick after touching infected surfaces and then touching their mouths. However, they can also catch the disease by ingesting contaminated food or water.
The stomach flu is very contagious. If you or someone in your household is sick, keep your distance as much as possible, wash your hands frequently, and take steps to disinfect shared surfaces, particularly in the bathroom and kitchen.
Is The Stomach Flu The Same As Influenza?
While similar, viral gastroenteritis differs from influenza or “the flu,” which is a viral infection that impacts the respiratory system and causes sneezing, watery eyes, and a runny nose.
How Long Does the Stomach Flu Last?
According to medical professionals, gastroenteritis typically lasts a few days but can last up to two weeks. The stronger your immune system, the faster you tend to recover.
How to Restore Gut Health After Stomach Flu
The stomach flu definitely takes a toll on your gut health. Medications, changes in eating habits while sick, and ongoing vomiting and diarrhea can impact the sensitive balance of microorganisms in your gut.
While the illness typically resolves within a few days, it can take some time for your gut to fully recover. Let’s look at how to get rid of the stomach flu naturally and support your digestive system after you’ve been sick.
Take Probiotics and Natural Supplements
The stomach flu can disrupt the balance of bacteria in your gut, leading to a decrease in beneficial microbes and an overgrowth of harmful bacteria. Probiotic supplements contain live strains of beneficial bacteria that may help restore the healthy bacteria, leading to improved digestion and immune response.
Somaya Life is an all-natural gut health supplement that goes beyond a typical probiotic. It contains 10 Smart Strains™ that were scientifically chosen to help boost overall wellness. Every strain has a purpose in supporting your gut and immune system.
Every strain has a purpose in supporting your gut and immune system.
- Enhancers that may help elevate the microbiome and help with digestion.
- Managers that target gut acid and may help convert acid into usable energy.
- Inhibitors that block unwanted pathogens and harmful bacteria that make you sick.
- Communicators may help your gut, nervous system, and brain work together.
Somaya Life is packed with unique strains of hard-working bacteria — but that’s it. Unlike other probiotics on the market, there are no artificial ingredients or additives that can make nausea and other flu symptoms even worse.
Ease Back Into Eating
After a bout of stomach flu, your digestive system may be sensitive and inflamed. Start by introducing bland, easy-to-digest foods rich with vitamins, minerals, and essential nutrients.
Consider starting with the BRAT diet method—bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast—which has been recommended to help reduce vomiting, diarrhea, and other symptoms. These foods provide gentle nourishment without putting additional strain on your gut.
As symptoms disappear and your body starts to tolerate more solid foods and flavors, consider incorporating gut-friendly and fermented options to help promote healing and restore balance to your microbiome.
Yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, and kimchi are rich in beneficial probiotics, which can work alongside Somaya Life to help repopulate your gut with healthy bacteria.
Rehydrate
One of the most critical steps in recovering from stomach flu is replenishing lost fluids and electrolytes. When you're experiencing vomiting and diarrhea, your body loses essential fluids and minerals, which can lead to dehydration.
Avoid sugary drinks and caffeine. Opt for electrolyte-rich drinks like coconut water and herbal teas. Ginger tea, in particular, is known for its anti-inflammatory and digestive properties, which may help alleviate nausea and calm your upset stomach.
It's best to start with small sips until you know what your body can handle, allowing at least a few minutes for your stomach to settle between drinks.
Prioritize Rest and Stress Management
Even once you start to feel better, your body needs time to recoup. Stress and a lack of sleep can negatively impact your gut health by disrupting the balance of beneficial bacteria in your microbiome.
While you’re sick, it’s best to find a quiet, secluded area where you can get plenty of rest rather than sitting in front of the TV or computer. Warm baths and showers are also a good option in between naps.
As your energy returns, take it easy as you go back to your daily routine around the house or at work. Practice stress-relief techniques such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, or gentle yoga to support your body's natural healing processes and minimize stress.
Feel Better Fast
Recovering from stomach flu is a gradual process that requires patience and radical self-care. By following these natural strategies, you can support your gut health and expedite the healing process after battling the stomach flu.
Remember to listen to your body's cues, prioritize hydration and nourishment, and give yourself the time and rest needed to fully recover and return to optimal health.
Contact us if you have questions about how Somaya Life can help support gut health before, during, and after the flu. We’re here to help.
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