Food poisoning is a common condition that occurs when the body consumes food or drinks contaminated with bacteria, virus, parasites, or toxins. Patients often experience symptoms such as abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhea, fever, and fatigue.

Dr. Nguyen Hong Ngoc, a specialist in gastroenterology at the Center for Endoscopy and Gastrointestinal Endoscopic Surgery, Tam Anh General Hospital TP HCM, stated that in addition to treating the cause and rehydrating, patients need to adjust their diet for a quick recovery. The intestines are in a sensitive state, so patients should eat bland foods to soothe the gut and minimize stomach irritation. Once symptoms of abdominal pain, diarrhea, and vomiting caused by food poisoning subside, patients can gradually introduce more easily digestible foods.

Eating five to six small meals a day helps the digestive system work gently, reducing nausea and bloating. Smaller meals also ensure patients receive necessary nutrients, improving immune health. Additionally, it is crucial to drink 1,5-2 liters of water daily to replenish fluids lost due to fever, vomiting, and diarrhea. Patients should sip water in small amounts, and replace plain water with unsweetened herbal tea or electrolyte solutions to support the recovery process.

Dr. Ngoc examines a patient. Photo: Tam Anh General Hospital

Here are some foods suitable for individuals recovering from food poisoning:

Apple: Components in apples possess mild antibacterial properties that can help balance stomach pH levels. Pectin, a soluble fiber in apples, slows down diarrhea, improves digestion, and thickens stool.

Banana: Eating bananas does not irritate the stomach or intestinal lining, is easy to digest, and supports the recovery of the digestive system after damage. Bananas are a natural source of potassium, which helps balance electrolytes after vomiting or diarrhea.

Yogurt: Individuals with food poisoning should choose unsweetened yogurt to soothe the stomach, restore and balance gut microbiota, and help alleviate digestive disorders. Yogurt contains beneficial bacteria that can inhibit harmful bacteria, accelerating recovery. This food is bland and easy to digest.

Yogurt contains many beneficial bacteria that help restore and balance gut microbiota. Photo: Thao Nhi

Avocado: EAE extract from avocado helps control bacteria that cause food poisoning, especially listeria, a common bacterium found in undercooked foods. The acetogenin in avocado has high antibacterial properties.

Thin porridge, plain porridge: Patients should consume plain or thin porridge during the initial stages of food poisoning or after recovery. This dish is easy to digest, contains minimal seasoning, and can soothe and reduce pressure on the stomach. Eating plain porridge also helps rehydrate and provide energy to the body.

Oatmeal: Similar to plain porridge, oatmeal has a soft, smooth texture, is easy to digest, and helps reduce stomach discomfort caused by food poisoning. Oatmeal is rich in protein, providing energy to the body and accelerating the recovery process.

Potato: Boiled or mashed potatoes are rich in vitamins and minerals, have a soft texture, and avoid irritating the stomach lining.

Egg white: Eggs contain abundant protein, are low in fat and cholesterol, and are easy to digest, helping to replenish energy during recovery. Patients should only eat thoroughly cooked egg whites to eliminate the risk of salmonella infection, which can cause food poisoning.

Plain crackers: The starch in plain crackers is generally easier to digest than other foods and provides sodium, an important electrolyte that the body can lose through sweating or vomiting.

Honey, ginger, lemon: Combining honey, ginger, and lemon in warm water or tea can help control nausea and support the digestive system. Patients should drink in small sips for easy absorption and to avoid over-stimulation.

Dr. Ngoc recommends that during treatment, patients monitor health signs such as fever, vomiting, and diarrhea. If symptoms do not subside after about one to two days or worsen, patients should seek medical attention for timely diagnosis and treatment.

Thao Nhi