Winter sets in and this time again, gastroenteritis has not spared homes. Can we still escape it?
Vomiting, acute diarrhea, fever, stomach aches: when it comes to the house, there is panic on board. Here are some simple tips to protect yourself from it or dismiss it naturally.
Little reminder :
Gastroenteritis is an inflammation of the digestive system caused by a virus and to a lesser extent, by bacteria or parasites present in water and food.
Metro bars or doors, door handles, coins, taps, toys or doctors' waiting rooms are the main vectors.
How did we catch it?
We will be even more exposed to it if our body is clogged and our immune system weakened.
Our dear end-of-year celebrations are no stranger to this: overeating, a liver loaded with alcohol and chocolate but also post-holiday fatigue, a little stress due to strikes and promiscuity in transport, here we go!
The natural question you need to ask yourself:
The usual anti-emetics and anti-diarrheals help stop the symptoms: OK. But assume that your body is intelligent and that if it is desperate for a way out, there is a reason. So do we block the exits or do we accompany him into battle?
How to stop gastrointestinal vomiting?
We know this feeling! Nausea, this “heartache” sometimes accompanied by retching, and vomiting are extremely unpleasant symptoms that are conducive to gastroenteritis. Did you know that vomiting is a reflex, which begins with excessive salivation and most often with a feeling of nausea. Subsequently, contractions of the digestive system lead to this forced expulsion of the contents of the stomach through the mouth.
Vomiting is controlled in the brain by the “vomiting center” in the medulla oblongata. The action of vomiting is enabled by violent contractions of the abdominal muscles and the diaphragm. The first thing to do is rehydrate: drink small amounts of water throughout the day.
Here are some grandmother's remedies to stop vomiting. They will give you instant relief:
- Ginger: Take a piece of ginger root and chew it to relieve vomiting. Ginger is a natural antiemetic effective in stopping nausea and vomiting.
- Mint leaves: rather than ready-made herbal teas against vomiting, prepare a cup of mint tea! It is a natural and effective anti-emetic.
- Cinnamon is known to be an effective remedy for vomiting and nausea.
- Cloves are known for their antiseptic properties which have a positive effect on the digestive system.
What natural remedy for gastro?
VEGETABLE CHARCOAL: THE FIRST PURIFYING REFLEX
It is obtained from birch wood or coconut shells. We say it is “active” when it has been calcined in such a way as to develop a network of small traps for unwanted molecules, a real minefield for invaders.
It absorbs all toxic molecules and evacuates them to the outside: viruses, bacteria, toxins from the intestines, this is the exit!
When to take it? : If necessary, for intestinal disorders, 1 to 3 teaspoons of powder, to mix in a glass of water.
Little tip to avoid black teeth, drink it through a straw. It also exists in capsule form.
WARNING: always take a distance from the pill or medication (around 2 hours) because it absorbs everything.
GRAPEFRUIT SEED EXTRACT: THE NATURAL ANTIBIOTIC
Naturally rich in bioflavonoids and vitamin C , it has beneficial effects on natural defenses, promotes the body 's resistance and helps fight colds. Several studies have demonstrated its effectiveness against 800 strains of bacteria and viruses. Ideal against gastroenteritis without affecting your intestinal flora.
When to take it? : If necessary, 15 drops in a glass of water morning, noon and evening.
Not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women.
INFUSION OF DRIED BLUEBERRY: TO CLEANENS THE INTESTINE
These fruits, rich in tannins, are traditionally used against diarrhea.
When to take it? : At the first signs of diarrhea, 1 teaspoon of fruit per cup of water. Drink 2 to 3 cups per day until improvement.
LEMBRASS: THE ANTISPASMODIC
Taken as a herbal tea, it will relieve intestinal cramps. Infuse 1 teaspoon per cup of water for 10 minutes covered, repeat 3 times a day.
ESSENTIAL OILS TO THE RESCUE
Anti-infectives with an intestinal focus:
- Cinnamon: the Attila of bacteria
- Compact oregano: the natural “antibiotic”.
- Exotic basil: the digestive antispasmodic.
- Peppermint: the liver and digestive stimulant.
Get advice from a professional for appropriate follow-up. Not recommended for children, pregnant or breastfeeding women.
FOOD AND ADDITIONAL ADVICE
Firstly, we put our digestive system to rest!
Salted vegetable broth and rice water in small quantities to avoid dehydration then, if you improve, choose foods that slow down transit: bananas, quince compote, apple, rice.
Without forgetting plenty of rest, to recover more easily.
What to eat during gastrointestinal illness?
During gastrointestinal illness, it is essential to eat as normally as possible. In fact, eating helps the wall of the intestine to heal more quickly and above all allows you to regain strength. Contrary to popular belief, not eating could prolong diarrhea.
Here are some foods to favor:
- pasta
- rice
- lean meats with very little fat
- fish cooked with very little fat
- cooked vegetables
- unsweetened cereals
- the bread
Foods and drinks to avoid:
- fruit juices that contain a lot of sugar
- fizzy drinks
- caffeinated drinks
- broths and soups in sachets or cans
- fried or fatty foods
- candy, chocolate
- spicy foods
What if we thought about it before catching it?
The priority objectives are simple: we pamper our immune system and our intestinal flora (microbiota). How ?
- First of all, we wash our hands several times a day. You know it but are you applying it enough?
- We adopt a varied, seasonal, colorful and preferably organic diet.
- We avoid the acidity of stimulants (alcohol, tobacco, coffee and soft drinks).
- We eat according to our digestive capacities and we chew!
It is also possible to take a course of probiotics or propolis to strengthen our body . Seek advice from a professional because not all are equal.