According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), about one in six Americans gets sick every year from foodborne illnesses, also known as food poisoning. This is 48 million people who may suffer from symptoms like vomiting, diarrhoea and stomach cramps.
Salmonella and E. coli are harmful bacteria that can be found in any food. However, they are more common in poultry, seafood, raw meat, eggs, and dairy products. Unwashed and raw veggies like sprouts, fruit, and leafy greens can carry bacteria that will upset your stomach.
When you’re sick, the last thing anyone wants to do is eat. What can you eat when you are ready to eat?
Here’s a list of foods and drinks to avoid after food poisoning.
1. Liquids are the best way to load up.
No matter how severe your symptoms are, you must stay hydrated.
Monisha Bhanote, M.D., a Florida-based integrative lifestyle physician, says that vomiting and diarrhoea can cause significant fluid loss. This can lead to dehydration. Dehydration can also make symptoms worse. Dr Bhanote notes. You can develop a headache or feel dizzy and confused if you don’t drink enough fluids.
Water is a great choice, but you also need to replenish electrolytes and salt. Choose electrolyte-rich liquids (such as sports drinks or broths) or an oral solution to rehydrate. Take small sips when you drink. This will help you to drink more liquids. Avoid coffee, other caffeinated beverages, milk and dairy drinks. After a bout with food poisoning, you may find lactose difficult to digest. Avoid sugary drinks. If you want to drink fruit juices, dilute them and choose clear juices such as white grape or apple.
2. Select foods that are easy to digest
Whitney Stuart explains why it’s okay to eat more quickly if you are ready.
Stuart says to start with soft and easy-to-digest foods like scrambled eggs, almond butter spread on bananas, or peanut butter bread. Pairing protein-rich foods like nut butter with bananas and toast can help balance blood sugar levels and keep you fuller for longer.
You can also consume stomach-soothing food such as bone broth or chicken soup. Stuart points out that both foods contain glutamine, which is good for the gut and provides an additional source of electrolytes and protein. You can make your version (search online for recipes) or buy a ready-made one.
Try the bland diet
The bland diet is composed of vegetables like spinach, carrots and beets, lean meat and low-fat dairy products. The monotonous diet is designed to reduce stress on the digestive system through a more efficient breakdown of the food. Speak to your provider about whether this is the right path for you.
3. Avoid certain food and beverages
Certain foods and beverages can worsen your symptoms or bring them back. Dr Bhanote & Stuart say that these include:
- Foods that are too spicy, greasy, or high in fat (such as pizza and fried foods)
- Alcohol
- Foods high in fibre are more difficult to digest. “Don’t go back to raw vegetables immediately. Stuart advises that you should cook them for the first couple of days.
Food poisoning can cause you to be unable to function for up to a few days. Call a provider if you feel you are suffering from severe food poisoning or need advice on how to proceed.
