Gastroenteritis is commonly called intestinal flu. It is an inflammation of the intestine due to a germ that causes diarrhea and vomiting.

SHOULD I DRINK IN CASE OF GASTROENTERITIS?

You must drink, because diarrhea and vomiting cause a loss of water and mineral salts (sodium, potassium, etc.). If you feel nauseous, drink water in small quantities, but frequently. Choose a mineral water rich in sodium to replenish your mineral salt reserves. The consumption of cola-based sodas is very controversial, it is better to abstain from it. Drink salted vegetable broth to rehydrate yourself and filtered to prevent the fibers from irritating your intestine.

WHAT FOODS SHOULD YOU AVOID DURING GASTROENTERITIS?

You should refrain from eating vegetables, fruits and fruit juices. Dairy products should be avoided, except for yogurt which restores the intestinal flora. Dishes in sauce and alcohol should obviously be avoided.

WHAT CAN I EAT WHEN I FEEL A LITTLE BETTER?

You can start eating again in small quantities:

grated apple without the skin or in compote,
small jars (apple quince) usually intended for babies,
very cooked rice with a little butter, sliced ​​or grated Gruyère cheese.

AT WHAT POINT CAN I START EATING AGAIN?

When you no longer have nausea, you can eat by adopting a so-called residue-free diet for two or three days, in order to let your intestine rest:

• chicken breast, ham, steamed fish,
• pasta, rice, without tomato sauce,
• yogurts.

You can then resume a normal diet.

Be careful, the major risk of gastroenteritis is dehydration. If gastroenteritis lasts more than two or three days, it is best to consult a doctor. In infants, gastroenteritis can cause significant and rapid dehydration, be vigilant and do not hesitate to take your child to a consultation or call the on-call doctor.