Stomach Flu Remedies for Kids
If your child is suffering from stomach flu, we talked about ways to get rid of them.
Home remedies
One of the most effective home remedies for stomach flu in kids is to ensure that your child washes their hands frequently and thoroughly. This is especially important after they use the toilet or when they are coughing or sneezing. Also, try not to share drink containers or eating utensils.
One of the best ways to treat a stomach flu in kids is by providing plenty of fluids. Water alone will not be enough to get rid of the illness, since children tend to lose electrolytes during diarrhea and vomiting. You can supplement these fluids with rehydration solutions to restore electrolytes and fluids. A homemade rehydration solution can be prepared with four cups of water, 6 teaspoons of sugar, and a pinch of salt. Rest is also important to help the digestive system heal.
Home remedies for stomach flu in kids include consuming mint juice mixed with lemon juice or honey. Rice water is also a great way to treat vomiting in kids. Cardamom seeds mixed with sugar can also help soothe the tummy.
Avoiding certain foods
The first thing to do during the symptoms of stomach flu in kids is to avoid foods that irritate the digestive tract. Sugar and fatty or spicy foods can make the condition worse. Also, children with stomach flu may have trouble digesting lactose, so dairy products are not recommended. Another good idea is to drink plenty of water and electrolyte drinks.
After vomiting has stopped, the child can start eating small amounts of solid food. It may take several hours for the child to feel up to eating, but he or she will be better soon. If he or she is unable to eat solid food, try to offer bland food. The goal is to get the child to feel better and return to school. The food and drinks should be bland and not too greasy.
Avoiding anti-diarrhea medications
While anti-diarrhea medications can help relieve diarrhea and nausea, they are not generally recommended for stomach flu remedies for kids. Instead, choose over-the-counter medications that can help alleviate symptoms. For example, acetaminophen is recommended for the pain and aches associated with stomach flu. It has fewer side effects than ibuprofen and is less likely to cause stomach irritation.
It is very important to keep your child hydrated during a stomach flu attack. Plain water may not be the best choice, so instead consider giving your child apple juice or an oral rehydration solution. Make sure that your child drinks the liquids in small sips to avoid dehydration. Drinking lots of electrolyte-rich foods is also important during stomach flu. Over-the-counter oral rehydration solutions are also an excellent source of electrolytes.
Avoiding giving your child plain water for rehydration
It is vital that you hydrate your child during the stomach flu, especially if he is vomiting a lot. However, avoid giving your child plain water because it lacks the necessary nutrients for a child with this disease. Instead, provide a variety of liquids and solids, such as milk or yogurt. During this time, avoid giving him or her anything sweet, such as sports drinks or full-strength juice. This is not only harmful to the digestive system, but can make the diarrhea worse.
ORS is a liquid that is given through a small tube that is inserted into the child’s stomach. Sometimes, the fluids are given directly into the child’s vein. However, it is best to consult a doctor in the event of severe dehydration, so that the proper treatment can be provided.