A “stomach bug,” medically known as acute gastroenteritis, is an inflammation of the stomach and intestines, typically caused by a viral infection like norovirus. Symptoms include severe vomiting and diarrhea, which cause the body to rapidly lose fluids and essential salts. The most important goal of managing this illness at home is preventing dehydration by maintaining adequate fluid intake.
Preventing Dehydration and Electrolyte Loss
The primary danger of a stomach bug stems from the body’s inability to absorb water and nutrients properly, leading to significant fluid loss through vomiting and loose stools. Diarrhea occurs when the inflamed intestinal lining prevents the normal reabsorption of water, causing it to be expelled. This fluid loss includes electrolytes like sodium, potassium, and chloride, which are necessary for nerve and muscle function.
Drinking plain water alone can be insufficient and potentially counterproductive because it dilutes the remaining electrolytes in the body. The small intestine uses a specific mechanism where glucose and sodium are transported together across the cell membrane, which then pulls water along. Without this balanced ratio of salts and sugar, water absorption is far less efficient, and the body struggles to keep up with the fluid deficit.
Specific Recommended Liquids for Relief
Oral Rehydration Solutions (ORS) are the standard for treating fluid loss because they contain the precise, balanced ratio of sodium, glucose, and other electrolytes needed for maximum absorption. The combination of glucose and sodium activates the co-transport mechanism in the gut, ensuring water is actively pulled into the bloodstream to replenish lost volume. ORS are available commercially in powders, tablets, or ready-to-drink liquids.
Clear broths, such as chicken or vegetable broth, also provide a gentle source of fluid and sodium, helping to replace lost electrolytes. The salt content in broth aids in fluid retention and is easy on a sensitive digestive system. Herbal, non-caffeinated teas like lukewarm ginger or peppermint tea can help settle the stomach and reduce feelings of nausea.
When the stomach is highly irritable, taking in fluids in solid form can be easier to tolerate, making electrolyte freezer pops or ice chips a helpful option. Small, frequent sips, rather than large gulps, are recommended to avoid triggering further vomiting. Diluted fruit juices, like half-strength apple juice, or sports drinks can provide some sugar and fluid, but they must be heavily diluted to prevent excessive sugar intake that could worsen diarrhea.
Beverages That Hinder Recovery
Several common beverages can slow recovery and exacerbate symptoms due to their sugar, caffeine, or fat content. Drinks high in simple sugars, such as undiluted fruit juices, regular sodas, and some sports drinks, should be avoided. The high concentration of sugar creates an osmotic effect in the gut, drawing more water into the intestines and worsening diarrhea.
Caffeinated beverages like coffee, black tea, and energy drinks act as diuretics, increasing urine output and promoting fluid loss, thereby worsening dehydration. These drinks can also irritate the sensitive gastrointestinal lining, potentially increasing the frequency of bowel movements. Temporarily avoid milk and other dairy products, as a stomach bug can cause a temporary deficiency of the enzyme lactase, leading to lactose intolerance and difficult-to-digest dairy.
Alcohol is contraindicated, as it is a potent diuretic and can irritate the stomach lining. Focusing on bland, easily absorbed liquids protects the digestive tract and allows the gut lining time to recover.
Recognizing When Hydration Efforts Are Insufficient
While home treatment with ORS and other clear liquids is often successful, knowing the signs of severe dehydration is important. A warning sign is a lack of urination for eight hours or more, or passing urine that is very dark yellow or amber. Other symptoms include extreme thirst, a dry mouth and tongue, and a noticeable lack of tears when crying, particularly in children.
In adults, persistent dizziness, lightheadedness, or confusion can indicate that dehydration is progressing to a dangerous level. If you are unable to keep any fluids down for 24 hours, or if symptoms are accompanied by a high fever or signs of blood in stool or vomit, immediate medical attention is necessary. These symptoms suggest that the body’s fluid loss is too great to be managed safely with oral rehydration alone, and intravenous fluids may be required.