Stomach flu can be a miserable experience, leaving you feeling nauseous, bloated, and unable to eat much. But what about drinking? Can you still enjoy your favorite beverages, like almond milk?
In this article, we’ll explore the benefits of almond milk for upset stomachs and whether it’s safe to drink during a bout of stomach flu. We’ll also share some tips for staying hydrated and nourished while you recover.
So grab a glass of almond milk (if you can stomach it) and let’s dive in!
Can You Drink Almond Milk With Stomach Flu?
The short answer is yes, you can drink almond milk with stomach flu. In fact, almond milk is often recommended as a soothing beverage for upset stomachs.
Unlike dairy milk, which can be difficult to digest and may worsen diarrhea, almond milk is easy on the stomach and can help stabilize blood sugar levels. It’s also a good source of calcium, which can be soothing for the stomach.
However, it’s important to choose unsweetened almond milk, as sugary drinks can aggravate stomach symptoms. You may also want to avoid flavored varieties, as they may contain additives that could irritate your stomach.
If you’re unsure whether almond milk is safe for you to drink, it’s always best to consult with your doctor or healthcare provider.
The Benefits Of Almond Milk For Upset Stomachs
Almond milk offers several benefits for upset stomachs. First, it is considered a low-FODMAP food, meaning it is easy to digest compared to dairy milk and will not trigger or worsen abdominal pain, diarrhea, constipation, and bloating.
Almond milk is also rich in fiber, which is essential for healthy digestion. It can help reduce problems like constipation and other intestinal issues, keeping your digestive system healthy.
Furthermore, almond milk is lactose-free, making it a suitable alternative for those with lactose intolerance. It contains multiple nutrients that offer immense health benefits, including beneficial effects on the heart, brain, skin, and anticancer and antioxidant properties.
When choosing almond milk for an upset stomach, it’s important to opt for unsweetened varieties to avoid aggravating stomach symptoms. Additionally, flavored varieties may contain additives that could irritate your stomach.
Tips For Staying Hydrated And Nourished During Stomach Flu Recovery
Stomach flu can lead to dehydration, which can cause further health problems. It’s important to stay hydrated during recovery. Start with small frequent sips of clear liquids such as water, herbal decaffeinated tea, broth, or over-the-counter electrolyte replacements. Avoid sugary drinks like juice or soda, as they can make diarrhea worse. Commercial rehydration solutions like Pedialyte or Gastrolyte are recommended as they contain the ideal proportion of water, sugar, and mineral salts needed for recovery. These solutions are sold over the counter in pharmacies in ready-to-drink liquid, freezies, and powder dissolved in water. When it comes to food, stick to sips of clear liquids at first. Once you stop vomiting or having diarrhea, slowly try foods to see if you can eat without vomiting. Follow your doctor’s instructions on the types of foods to eat when dealing with an upset stomach or diarrhea. As you feel better, return to a normal, healthy diet including fruits and vegetables. The BRAT diet (bananas, rice, applesauce, and tea/toast) is often recommended for kids with stomach flu but won’t provide all the important nutrients needed for recovery. Encourage fruits and vegetables and supplement with lean proteins like lentils while limiting fatty, sugary, or greasy foods that may make nausea or diarrhea worse. Probiotic supplements can help replenish the gut with bacteria lost during diarrhea and promote gut health.
Other Beverages To Consider During Stomach Flu
In addition to almond milk, there are several other beverages that can be helpful during stomach flu. It’s important to stay hydrated, so choosing clear liquids that are easy to digest is key.
Water is always a good choice, but if you’re looking for something with a little more flavor, herbal decaffeinated tea can be soothing for the stomach. Broth and over-the-counter electrolyte replacements like Pedialyte are also great options for avoiding dehydration.
Clear soda, such as 7-Up or Sprite, can also be helpful, but it’s important to stir it well to release more carbonation. Avoid sugary drinks and sports drinks that are high in sugar, as they can worsen diarrhea.
If you’re looking for a way to add a little flavor to your drinks without aggravating your stomach, try adding a small amount of salt or baking soda to your beverage. This can help replenish lost electrolytes and make your drink more palatable.
Remember to avoid spicy, high-fat, sugary, and acidic foods and drinks, as well as coffee and alcoholic beverages. Stick with bland foods like crackers, toast, dry low-sugar cereal, potatoes, apple sauce, bananas, and rice until your stomach feels better.
If you’re experiencing severe dehydration or other severe symptoms, seek immediate care from medical professionals. Otherwise, focus on staying hydrated and giving your stomach time to recover with clear liquids and bland foods.
