What Food Can You Eat with a Stomach Virus?

While a stomach bug may not be too serious or life threatening, it is no fun at all. Aversions to food often come along with having an upset stomach, but it is still important to eat enough to keep your body strong enough to get better.

Identification

Gastroenteritis, also known as the a stomach bug or stomach flu, can cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and other abdominal pains and cramps. These symptoms usually last less than a week, and, if they continue beyond this point or are accompanied by any other flu-like symptoms, it is important to see a doctor.

Rehydration

More important than any medication, it is essential to keep yourself hydrated during a stomach virus. Water, clear sports drinks or ginger ale are the safest bet.

BRAT Diet

The BRAT diet is an acronym for bananas, rice, applesauce and toast. Some have added tea or yogurt to this acronym (bratt or bratty). These are the recommended foods for adults suffering from a stomach virus.

Children with a Virus

For children suffering with a stomach virus, the BRAT foods made be added to the diet. However, children also need to maintain a well-balanced diet as much as possible in order to keep their bodies running and fighting off the illness.

Warning

It's very important to be cautious about jumping back into regular food too soon. Just because you're feeling better for a few hours or even a few days doesn't mean the stomach bug has completely left your system. Take it easy for a few days to avoid getting sick again.