More evidence that low-calorie sweeteners are bad for your health
Studies show that artificial sweeteners can raise the risk of hypertension, metabolic syndrome, type 2 diabetes and heart disease, including stroke.
Gastroenteritis – commonly called stomach flu – is an inflammation of the stomach and intestines.
It can come on quickly and bring uncomfortable symptoms such as vomiting, abdominal cramps,low grade fever and diarrhoea.
There are many causes of gastroenteritis, including viruses, food poisoning and infection. Although we call it ‘flu’, gastroenteritis is not a true flu (which is a disease of the respiratory system).
There are no ‘cures’ for gastroenteritis. Doctors have little to offer and the time-honoured trio of time, rest and fluids are probably your best healers.
Most cases will resolve themselves within a couple of days. However, if the symptoms are severe, or if they continue for more than 48 hours, it is wise to consult your healthcare professional.
In the meantime there are several things you can do to make yourself more comfortable and speed your recovery.
Stay hydrated
For anyone with gastroenteritis, but particular for babies and children, dehydration is a real risk. Make sure to take plenty of fluids to replace fluids that are lost. You can take an over the counter oral rehydration or electrolyte drinks to treat and prevent dehydration, but this can be an expensive option and not all scientists are convinced of their value.
A recent study found that diluted apple juice followed by free intake of other fluids was more effective – and more affordable. This may also be good advice for adults as well.
In addition adults may like to try lemon juice diluted in hot or cool water (add a squeeze of honey if you prefer). Lemons are packed with vitamin C and can help aid detox and alkalise the body.
Herbs
Apart from making tasty herbal teas, which can help you stay hydrated, herbs can also have a medicinal effect. Try these:
Chamomile, Marshmallow Root, Meadowsweet Make an infusion from equal parts of each (I tsp each per cup) and drink a cupful three times a day to soothe the digestive system.
Ginger Will help relieve nausea and vomiting. Add a few slices of fresh ginger root – or a little ginger powder – to hot water and sip regularly.
Peppermint A tea made from peppermint can help to sooth an upset stomach and treat gas and bloating. It is most effective for an upset stomach when used as a tea.
Slippery Elm A light and soothing nutritious food. This may be introduced before other more solid food can be tolerated. Stir a teaspoon of the herb into a little warm water to make a paste, top up the cup with warm water, and drink three times a day.
Homoeopathy
Choose the remedy that best matches the symptoms.
Ars Alb 30 Most important remedy for food poisoning. Violent vomiting and diarrhoea accompanied with abdominal pains. Chilly, restless, exhausted, fearful and feverish. Burning sensations. Worse at night and by eating. One dose three times a day for three days.
Bryonia 30 Nausea with vomiting and abdominal pain. Pain worse when moving and in the morning. Feels irritable. Better when lying on the stomach. Thirsty with dry mouth. One dose three times a day for three days.
Colocynth 30 Severe abdominal pains with vomiting and diarrhoea. Doubles up with the pain and holds the stomach because pressure and warmth bring relief. Feels better after a stool. One dose three times a day for three days.
Ipecac 30 Persistent nausea with vomiting; the nausea continues even after vomiting. Patient has a clean tongue. Vomit and stool contains mucous. Dosage as for Ars Alb.
Nux Vom 30 Vomiting and retching. Back aches. Chilly, irritable patient. Patient much relieved after vomiting. One dose three times a day for three days.
Pulsatilla 30 Nausea and diarrhoea. Worse at night, and worse in a warm room. Lack of thirst, craves open air. Common remedy for children who become clingy and weepy. One dose three times a day for three days.
Aromatherapy
Essential oils have therapeutic and antimicrobial actions that can help ease symptoms and stop the spread of viruses to others in your family.
Cypress, Chamomile Add three drops of each to 20mls of a vegetable oil base and lightly massage onto the abdomen.
Thyme Dilute 15 drops in a small spray bottle and top up with half water half vodka. This may be sprayed in the room as a disinfectant.
You may not feel like eating but…
When you have gastroenteritis the last thing you may be thinking about is food. You should certainly try to avoid foods such as:
But some nourishment is essential. Try grating some apple and eating this a spoonful at a time. Grating breaks the apple down, thus taking some strain off your digestive tract. Apples are also full of gut soothing pectin, which helps to reduce the symptoms of diarrhoea, as well as easy-to-assimilate nutrients and, of course fluids. Bananas are another good light food choice and are also full of pectin. People with gastroenteritis should gradually ease back into eating with plan foods like clear broths, crackers or toast and honey.
Our Astragalus and schizandra broth is a good way to help fight off viral infections and support immunity. When you start feeling better try our recipe for Warm chicken congee. Both recipes are from Neal’s Yard Remedies Healing Foods – Eat Your Way to a Healthier Life.
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