Stomach flu is awful. No one likes trapping into it. Yet, there is no escape. When a number of different viruses attack gastrointestinal system, it happens. Once infected, who doesn’t want a speedy recovery? The best treatments you can rely upon are in your own kitchen. No need to wait at clinics for hours and pay your doctor unscrupulously high. These treatments not only shorten the length but the severity of the symptoms too.

Symptoms – Watery diarrhoea, abdominal pain, chills, mild fever, headache, muscle cramps, nausea and vomiting.

Duration – One to 10 days depending on the type of virus that attacks.

Five easy and effective home solutions –

Apple cider vinegar – Packed with pectin, it helps relax stomach flu treating stomach ache, nausea, vomiting and gas. Add one teaspoon in a glass of warm water and drink four to five times a day preferably before each meal.  

Chamomile herb with honey and lemon – Being antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory, it is very effective against diarrhoea, abdominal cramps, nausea, and bloating. Add two teaspoons of dried chamomile flowers to a cup of hot water. Cover and let it seep for 10 minutes. Strain and add little lemon juice and honey to it. Drink three to four times a day.

Bananas – Bananas are rich source of potassium. They are easily digestible and replenish the body with potassium lost during diarrhoea and vomiting. Eat three to four a day.

Ginger herb – Ginger being anti-inflammatory and naturally antiviral, it helps reduce nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramps, bloating and frequency of loose stools. Chew it fresh five to six times a day. You may also boil it in a cup of water. Cover and let it seep for 10 minutes. Strain and drink three to four times a day.

Low fat plain yogurt – It is easy to digest and replenishes nutrients lost through vomiting and diarrhoea. Yogurt contains live and active cultures that help the healthy functioning of digestive system.

Eat right foods and drink right fluids. Keep your body well hydrated with water. Avoid eating salty, spicy, junk, oily, fibrous, dairy and fatty foods. Stay away from caffeine and alcohol. Give your body full rest to fight off the virus and repair cellular damage. Happy recovery.