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Ice chips -

When you have the stomach flu, it can be difficult to keep anything down, including water and other liquids. Sucking on ice chips can help you keep fluids down and stay better hydrated in the early stages of the stomach flu.

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Water -

Due to its lack of flavor, sugar, or caffeine, water is by far the best liquid to drink when you're recovering from the stomach flu. Most importantly, water will keep you hydrated.

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Peppermint tea -

Peppermint tea may help relieve stomach flu symptoms. In fact, even just the smell of peppermint may reduce nausea.

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Ginger -

Ginger is commonly used to alleviate nausea, a primary symptom of the stomach flu. It can be consumed fresh, as a spice, or as an ingredient in teas.

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Electrolyte beverages -

Electrolytes are a group of electrically charged minerals that aid critical bodily functions, such as blood pressure regulation and muscle contraction. Drinking fluids that contain electrolytes, such as Gatorade, can help prevent dehydration.

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Broth-based soups -

Broth-based soups have a very high water content, which can help with hydration during the stomach flu. Therefore, they're great when you're easing back into eating foods.

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Golden milk -

Golden milk is a traditional hot drink in India, which helps reduce cold- and flu-like symptoms. It's made of turmeric and milk.

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Juice -

While some juices may contain a notable concentration of certain vitamins, many products are high in sugar, which can make you feel worse. Therefore, mix a clear juice, like apple juice, with water (using a 1:1 ratio) to decrease the sugar content.

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Watery fruits -

Beverages aren't the only option for hydration. In fact, many fruits are 80–90% water. Opt for watermelon, strawberries, cantaloupe, and peaches especially.

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Popsicles -

Eating foods with mostly a water base, such as popsicles, helps keep you hydrated.

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Bananas -

Bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast are the foundation of the BRAT diet, which is recommended for adults and children with upset stomachs or diarrhea.

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Rice -

However, the BRAT diet alone won't give your body all the nutrients it needs.

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Applesauce -

Nevertheless, a person can ease into a bland diet until they feel ready for food.

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Toast -

Generally, with the BRAT diet, a person can incorporate additional foods back into their diet as they feel better.

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Dry cereal -

Since most cereals are low in fat, free of spices, and made up of easily digestible simple carbs, they're relatively gentle on your upset stomach. But since dairy products can make diarrhea worse, eat the cereal dry.

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Saltine crackers -

Salted crackers also help soothe an unsettled stomach.

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Pretzels -

Just like salted crackers, pretzels are also a good choice because they're made up of simple carbs that are quickly and easily digested.

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Oatmeal -

Like rice, oatmeal is another bland food that's typically easy to tolerate when your stomach is upset.

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Plain potatoes -

Plain, boiled potatoes are a great option when you have the stomach flu. They're soft, low in fat, and made up of easily digestible starches.

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Eggs -

Eggs are a nutritious choice when you have the stomach flu. However, avoid frying eggs in oil, butter, or lard, as high fat may worsen diarrhea.

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Low-fat poultry and meat -

Your body may better tolerate lean poultry and meats like chicken, turkey, and ham when you have the stomach flu. Avoid frying the meat and instead opt for baking, roasting, or grilling it.

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Fatty fish -

Fatty fish are sources of omega-3 fatty acids, which help reduce inflammation. Fatty fish include herring, salmon, mackerel, sardines, and tuna.

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Tofu -

Tofu, part of the bland diet, can substitute chicken or turkey and fatty fish if you follow a plant-based diet.

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Beans -

Beans, including black and kidney beans, are a source of fiber. High-fiber foods help alleviate constipation by softening your stool when you drink adequate amounts of fluids.

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Yogurt -

Probiotics are live microorganisms that help restore the balance of beneficial bacteria in your gut. These contain bacteria that are healthy for the stomach and can help treat diarrhea. Plain yogurt is rich in probiotics.

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Fermented foods -

Other probiotic-rich foods include sauerkraut, kimchi, pickles, and miso.

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Non-dairy kefir -

This is a probiotic drink made from kefir grains and coconut milk.

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Nuts and seeds -

Nuts and seeds pack fiber, which helps alleviate inflammation. Chia seeds, flaxseeds, and walnuts are also great sources of omega-3s.

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Foods and drinks to avoid -

Some foods and beverages may worsen your stomach flu symptoms. Avoid caffeinated beverages and spicy, high fat, sugary, and/or fried foods.

Sources: (Healthline) (Health.com) (Business Insider) 

See also: Daily habits that increase your risk of getting sick

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