Gastroenteritis is an intestinal infection that causes inflammation of the stomach and intestines. It is also known as “stomach flu”. but it has nothing to do with that respiratory condition. However, just like the flu, there are natural remedies for gastroenteritis.
Its main cause is the attack of some viruses and bacteria that can enter the body. Thus, due to the infection, patients experience diarrhea, abdominal pain, and a variety of other digestive symptoms which can worsen when prompt treatment is not provided.
Yes, OK you should consult your doctor to assess the level of severityyou can use home remedies that can help counteract the symptoms as the recovery period passes.
In this occasion we want to review some of its main causes and several natural remedies for gastroenteritis, which can be considered as extra aids for the treatment. Discover them!
What are the causes of gastroenteritis?
Gastroenteritis is caused by infection with certain types of viruses and bacteria seep into the body. This is given by direct contact with sick patients, sharing items for personal use or drinking contaminated food and water. Related microorganisms are:
- Rotaviruses.
- Noroviruses.
- Bacterium Escherichia coli.
- Campylobacteria.
- Salmonella.
- Staphylococcus.
Among the risk factors for contagion we find:
- Eating undercooked foods.
- Coming into contact with contaminated water.
- Eat Food prepared by someone who doesn’t wash their hands.
- Likewise, sharing utensils, towels, or any items for personal use with someone who is infected.
- Frozen or refrigerated food that is not stored at the correct temperature.
- Also eat raw fruit or vegetables that have not been well washed.
symptoms of gastroenteritis
Symptoms of this disease They can vary depending on the type of microorganism that produced it. In general, patients experience:
- watery diarrhea
- abdominal cramps
- Nausea and vomit.
- moderate fever.
- Feces with blood
- Loss of appetite.
- Chills and sweats.
- Muscular pain.
- Feeling tired.
- Weight loss.
Visit this article: 7 reasons why you might be suffering from gastroenteritis
Natural remedies for gastroenteritis
Natural remedies for gastroenteritis aim at control diarrhea and reduce symptoms associated with dehydration. These are often enough to control the disease. However, we recommend Consult a doctor for other types of treatment.
1. Water with salt and sugar
Salt and sugar water is one of the natural remedies for gastroenteritis, as salt contains large amounts of sodium. This is an electrolyte that, together with water, prevents the body from becoming dehydrated due to diarrhea. Moreover, its properties fight infections and regulate digestive pH.
ingredients
- 1 teaspoon of salt (5 grams).
- 2 tablespoons of sugar (30 grams).
- 4 cups of water (1 liter).
Preparation
- First of all, you have to make sure you boil the water before consuming it, or else use mineral water.
- Next, add the salt and sugar to the cups of water.
- Stir them so that they dissolve well.
mode of consumption
- Distribute the drink for 4 or 5 doses per day.
- Consume it every 4 hours.
As a complement to this remedy it is important to drink liquids small sips throughout the day. These can also be clear broths, infusions or fruit juices.
2. Ginger
Ginger root is another of the natural remedies for gastroenteritis. Contains essential oils with antibacterial and antiviral effects They help stop the infection. In addition, ginger has been shown to reduces nausea and vomiting.
ingredients
- 1 teaspoon of grated ginger (5 grams).
- 1 cup of water (250 milliliters).
Preparation
- First, boil the cup of water.
- Once it boils, add the grated ginger and cover the drink.
- Wait for it to rest for 10 minutes and finally filter.
mode of consumption
- Take the tea 2 or 3 times a day until you notice an improvement.
3. Apple cider vinegar
Organic apple cider vinegar contains acids that regulate the pH of the stomach to control the symptoms caused by this infection. AS, its nutrients counteract losses to diarrhea and vomiting. Therefore, it is one of the natural remedies for gastroenteritis that we recommend.
ingredients
- 1 teaspoon of organic apple cider vinegar (5 millilitres).
- 1 glass of water (200 milliliters).
Preparation
- You just have to dilute the apple cider vinegar in a glass of warm water.
mode of consumption
- Take the remedy 30 minutes before each main meal.
This remedy has no scientific backing for its effectiveness, so it should be used with caution. It is also important never to ingest undiluted apple cider vinegar as it may cause irritation and wear and tear on the tooth enamel.
4. Mint is another of the natural remedies for gastroenteritis
Mint infusion has antibiotic and antispasmodic properties. As, can control stomach pain It is caused by virus or bacterial infection.
ingredients
- 1 teaspoon of mint (5 grams).
- 1 cup of water (250 milliliters).
Preparation
- First, boil the cup of water.
- Once it boils, add the mint and cover the drink.
- Leave to cool for 10 minutes.
- Before taking it, filter it.
mode of consumption
- Take the infusion after each main meal.
5. Cinnamon and honey are natural remedies for gastroenteritis
The natural cinnamon and honey drink has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. Thanks to your antibacterial properties honey can shorten the duration of diarrhea in these cases. Additionally, it has also proven to be a good ingredient to add to oral rehydration solutions to replace sugar or glucose.
ingredients
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (2 grams).
- 1 cup of water (250 milliliters).
- 1 tablespoon of honey (25 grams).
Preparation
- First, bring the water to a boil.
- Then, when it boils, dissolve the ground cinnamon.
- Once the cinnamon has dissolved, let the drink sit for 5 minutes.
- Before taking it, sweeten it with honey.
mode of consumption
- Take the infusion 2 times a day as soon as you feel digestive discomfort.
Guidelines for integrating natural remedies for gastroenteritis
Experts point out that in addition to medical treatment and some home remedies to improve the disease, it is necessary to adopt other guidelines that facilitate the healing process.
6. Go back to eating little by little
During the processes of gastroenteritis, food can be suspended to rest the digestive system and improve the situation of vomiting and diarrhea. This is not a problem as long as it is temporary and fluid intake is not given up.
Gradually incorporate soft, easily digestible foods such as yogurt, white bread, baked apple, white noodle soup, well-done chicken or fish. Instead, avoid foods that are very fatty, spicy, rich in fiber, milk, alcohol and caffeine.
7. Rest
The disease itself, vomiting or diarrhea, and possible dehydration can cause tiredness in those affected. For this, it is necessary to rest, postpone planned activities and try to get the right amount of sleep.
Apply one of these natural remedies to improve gastroenteritis
These home remedies can reduce the discomfort of gastroenteritis. However, should be applied with caution and always after consulting your doctor.
Some medicinal plants may not be suitable in certain situations (pregnancy, breastfeeding, illness or taking medication). For this reason, it is strongly recommended that you consult a professional beforehand in this case.
Most cases of stomach flu get better on their own without any treatment. If blood appears in your vomit or stool, dehydration, fever over 100 degrees, or difficulty retaining fluids; you need to contact your doctor again.
Alike, To prevent its occurrence, it is necessary to wash your hands often with soap and water. Especially after going to the bathroom, changing diapers, and before and after cooking and handling food.
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