Norovirus is the most common cause of gastroenteritis which causes nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain and cramping and diarrhea. Recovery can be hastened or slowed depending on what you eat after the norovirus infection.
When you think about a norovirus infection, it is important to understand the symptoms and causes of the condition.
Symptoms of a norovirus infection usually begin about 1-2 days after the infection. The symptoms typically last for about 3 days, but you may still be contagious for up to 3 days after the symptoms stop. The main symptoms of norovirus infection are abdominal pain and cramping with nausea, vomiting and profuse watery diarrhea. You may run a fever and just feel “rundown”.
The norovirus is typically found in the feces of infected people. However, you can also be exposed to the virus by eating contaminated food or water or by touching an infected object and then putting your hands to your mouth.
Take clear liquids only until all symptoms have been gone for 24 hours. What should you eat after that time? Here are a few suggestions.
| FOODS | RECOMMENDED | BENEFITS |
|---|---|---|
| Liquid Foods |
Low-sodium Vegetables |
Replaces liquids lost due to vomiting and diarrhea; the high salt content helps to replace the sodium that was lost |
| Chicken Broth |
Replaces liquids lost due to vomiting and diarrhea; the high salt content helps to replace the sodium that was lost |
|
| Chicken Noodle Soup |
Soothes your stomach; replaces liquids lost due to vomiting and diarrhea; the high salt content helps to replace the sodium that was lost |
|
| Clear Liquids (water, sports drinks or clear soda) |
Replaces liquids lost due to vomiting and diarrhea; sports drinks can replace electrolytes lost due to vomiting and diarrhea |
|
| Solid Foods |
Banana |
Known as “BRAT” diet; easy to digest; no spices to cause further nausea; provides nutrients |
| Rice |
||
| Applesauce |
||
| Toast |
||
| Saltine Cracker |
Bland food that is easy to digest; provides calories and some nutrition |
|
| Baked Potatoes |
Bland food that is easy to digest; provides calories and some nutrition |
|
| Baked Skinless Chicken |
Bland food that is easy to digest; provides calories and excellent nutritional value |