Find out what causes stomach flu, what the signs are, and how to treat it. Noroviruses and rotaviruses are the most common causes of stomach flu, also known as viral gastroenteritis.
In this resource, we will discover valuable tips for treating and preventing the stomach flu. Lastly, we’ll discuss the role of beta glucan in maintaining gut health – a significant factor that can influence your overall health.
What Causes Stomach Flu?
Norovirus and rotavirus are just two examples of the viruses that cause stomach flu, also known as viral gastroenteritis. You can catch it from contaminated food or water, close contact with an infected person, or touching contaminated surfaces.
Similar symptoms may also be brought on by bacteria like E. coli and Salmonella.
Viral Gastroenteritis vs Bacterial Infections
Both viral gastroenteritis and bacterial infections share many symptoms, but there are key differences in how to control them.
Bacterial Infections vs. Viral Gastroenteritis
Many symptoms are shared by viral gastroenteritis and bacterial illnesses, but there are significant distinctions in how they are treated.
Natural Immunity Boosters: Home Remedies & Supplements
Prevention is key when it comes to stomach flu, and maintaining a strong immune system is crucial. Eating immune-boosting foods rich in vitamins C and E, along with zinc, can help strengthen your defense system against harmful microbes. To further bolster your immune system, Beta Glucan may be a helpful supplement to include in your daily routine. Stay healthy, folks.
Symptoms of Stomach Flu
Early detection of stomach flu symptoms will help you better handle the illness.
The most common symptoms include:
- Nausea or vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Abdominal pain or cramping
- Fever, chills, or sweating
- Muscle aches and fatigue
In some cases, a headache and loss of appetite may also be present with these indicators. The onset of stomach flu often happens suddenly – one moment you’re feeling fine and the next you’re hit with waves of nausea.
If your symptoms are severe or persist for longer than a few days, medical attention should be sought to prevent any serious risks associated with stomach flu such as dehydration.
Dehydration is a serious risk associated with stomach flu due to excessive fluid loss from vomiting and diarrhea. Signs of dehydration include extreme thirst, dark urine, dry skin, and dizziness upon standing up quickly (source: Mayo Clinic).
Treating Symptoms at Home
You might find relief through various home remedies like sipping on clear broths or herbal teas which can soothe an upset stomach while keeping you hydrated. Over-the-counter medications, like anti-nausea drugs, may provide temporary symptom relief.
Beta Glucan for Gut Health
Beta glucan has been shown in studies to support gut health, which could potentially alleviate some discomfort caused by viral gastroenteritis. Remember, though, that this should not replace proper disease control measures but rather complement them.
Diagnosing Stomach Flu
Step one: figure out if you have the stomach flu, also known as viral gastroenteritis. Don’t rely on Google – see a doctor for an accurate diagnosis.
Recognizing Symptoms
Stomach flu symptoms include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. Other symptoms of the stomach flu may include a low-grade fever, chills, headaches, or muscle aches.
Medical Diagnosis
If you’re still feeling sick after 48 hours or experiencing severe dehydration symptoms like dry mouth, throat, or dizziness, it’s time to see a doctor. They’ll diagnose you based on your symptoms and might need a stool sample for testing.
Disease Control at Home
While you’re recovering, take steps to prevent the spread of the virus:
- Avoid close contact with others until you’re no longer contagious.
- Clean surfaces regularly with bleach-based cleaners – the stomach flu virus can survive on hard surfaces for days.
Natural Remedies: Beta Glucan Supplement
Along with rest and hydration, try natural remedies like beta glucan supplements. They can help support gut health and boost your immune system’s response to pathogens causing gastrointestinal diseases like the stomach flu.
Treating Stomach Flu
Give your immune system a fighting chance by getting plenty of rest. Drink lots of fluids to prevent dehydration resulting from vomiting or diarrhea.
Stomach flu, aka viral gastroenteritis, is a tough condition to handle. But, fear not. There are ways to manage it and get relief.
- Rest and Hydration
- Over-the-Counter Medications
- Over-the-counter medications can help alleviate symptoms like nausea or abdominal pain.
- Natural Remedies and Supplements
Home remedies have been used for centuries to treat stomach viruses. Try natural treatments like ginger or peppermint tea to soothe your digestive system.
Additionally, supplements like Beta Glucan can boost immunity and promote gut health. Research shows that Beta Glucan stimulates the immune response, which can help fight off infections like the stomach flu.
Note: These tips may help manage symptoms, but they’re not guaranteed cures. Before beginning any new treatment, it is best to seek advice from a healthcare provider, especially if you have an impaired immune system due to illnesses like cancer.
Is Beta Glucan a Natural Ally Against Viruses?
Studies suggest that beta glucan may be effective in preventing various types of infections, including those caused by viruses such as the flu. Beta glucan is a type of soluble fiber that aids in digestion by slowing down food transit in the intestines.
This process helps with nutrient absorption while also making you feel fuller for longer.
5 Tips to Avoid the Dreaded Stomach Flu
It is possible to avoid viral gastroenteritis, also known as stomach flu, by taking some simple precautions.
1. Keep it Clean
The first line of defense against the stomach virus is good hygiene. Wash your hands regularly with soap and warm water, especially before meals and after using the bathroom.
Avoid sharing utensils or personal items with someone who has the virus to prevent disease transmission.
2. Eat Well and Stay Hydrated
A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains helps strengthen your immune system, making it more capable of fighting off viruses. Drinking plenty of fluids also keeps you hydrated, which is crucial when warding off illnesses.
3. Try Natural Supplements
Incorporating natural supplements into your routine can provide additional support to your immune system. Beta glucan, for instance, has been shown to stimulate white blood cells that fight infections, thereby boosting immunity levels.
4. Rest Up
To promote a healthy immune system, aim for 7-8 hours of sleep each night.
5. Avoid Sick People
It may seem obvious, but avoiding contact with sick people is one of the best ways to prevent the spread of the stomach flu. If a person in your home is ill, disinfecting surfaces and frequently washing hands can help reduce the chances of getting infected.
Beta Glucan for Gut Health
When it comes to keeping your gut healthy, beta glucan has amazing benefits. It’s derived from baker’s yeast, shiitake mushrooms, and cereal grains like barley and oats. But what makes this humble compound so beneficial?
Beyond its role in digestion, beta glucan may play a crucial role in disease control. Glucans stimulate the immune system, activating macrophages to battle against pathogens that can cause stomach flu or viral gastroenteritis.
The Role of Beta Glucan Against Stomach Flu
Your body needs all the help it can get to effectively combat viruses like rotavirus and norovirus when fighting stomach flu. That’s where beta glucans come into play.
They boost your immunity response not just generally but specifically target areas under attack – like your gut when dealing with gastroenteritis.
Conclusion
Don’t let stomach flu knock you down – know the causes and symptoms to treat it effectively.
Stay hydrated, rest up, and avoid certain foods to ease stomach virus symptoms.
Boost your immune system with gut-healthy supplements like beta glucan to fight off viruses.
Marissa is a Pediatric Occupational Therapist turned stay-at-home mom who loves sharing her tips, tricks, and ideas for navigating motherhood. Her days are filled starting tickle wars and dance parties with three energetic toddlers and wondering how long she can leave the house a mess until her husband notices. When she doesn’t have her hands full of children, she enjoys a glass (or 3) of wine, reality tv, and country music. In addition to blogging about all things motherhood, she sells printables on Etsy and has another website, teachinglittles.com, for kid’s activity ideas.
