Food Poisoning
Food poisoning usually occurs within 48 hours of consuming contaminated food or drink.
In most cases it is unpleasant, but not serious.
The typical symptoms of vomiting, diarrhea and fever are the body’s way of eliminating poisons and should not be suppressed without medical advice.
Dietary Advice For Food Poisoning
Prevention is easier than cure. Make sure shellfish, chicken, meat and eggs are thoroughly cooked, do not store or prepare raw and cooked foods together, and wash your hands before handling different foods. Do not refreeze frozen foods once thawed, and when reheating food ensure it is heated right through. Take extra care at summer barbecues and buffets as meat may not be cooked thoroughly and bugs spread easily in the heat.
If going abroad, help your resistance to stomach bugs by taking 2 one-a-day garlic capsules for at least a week beforehand. It can also help to take probiotic supplements such as lactobacillus acidophilus before traveling.
If you get ill, drink lots of bottled water to prevent dehydration, and take soluble rehydration salts. When you feel able, eat simple, safe foods such as rice, apples and bananas for 48 hours. Re-introduce other foods gradually, starting with steamed vegetables.
Complimentary Remedies For Food Poisoning
Bottled water with added honey and lemon juice, or organic essential oil of lemon, helps kill many forms of bacteria. Take a few tablespoons of bottled water from a liter and heat almost to boiling point. Remove from the heat, add 5 tsp clear honey and stir until dissolved. Stir in 8 drops lemon oil (or the juice of 1 to 2 lemons) and pour the mixture into the bottled water using a funnel. Shake well. Drink a glassful as often as possible to replace lost fluid and restore energy.
Meadowsweet tea soothes the digestive system. Use 1 to 2 tsp dried herb to a cup of boiling water, leave for 15 minutes and drink 3 times a day.
The homeopathic remedy Arsenicum album 6c can help with diarrhea, burning colicky pains, restlessness, anxiety and chilliness. Take 1 tablet every 15 minutes for up to 6 doses.
Very young children, the elderly, pregnant women, people whose immune system is weakened by illness and those with prolonged vomiting and diarrhea should be seen by a doctor.
