How to Stay Hydrated When You Have Gastroenteritis

Gastroenteritis, often called the "stomach flu," is a digestive illness that causes diarrhea, vomiting, and abdominal discomfort. These symptoms lead to rapid fluid loss, which puts you at high risk for dehydration and can prolong recovery if not addressed quickly. In this guide, we’ll explain how to stay hydrated when you have gastroenteritis and share tips for choosing the best rehydration methods and electrolyte drinks for recovery.

Why Gastroenteritis Causes Dehydration ²

One of the most common complications of gastroenteritis is dehydration. The body loses fluids and electrolytes quickly through frequent vomiting and diarrhea. When this happens, it becomes harder for your body to function correctly. Fortunately, learning how to prevent dehydration during gastroenteritis can help you recover faster and avoid further health concerns.

How to Stay Hydrated with Gastroenteritis ^{3 4}

Staying hydrated during the stomach flu can be challenging, especially if you feel nauseated. These hydration strategies are designed to help you take in fluids without further upsetting your stomach.

• Take Small, Steady Sips: Large gulps can trigger more nausea. Instead, sip slowly throughout the day.
• Choose Lukewarm Liquids: Room-temperature drinks are easier to tolerate than hot or cold ones.
• Try Ice Chips: Letting ice melt in your mouth can help hydrate you gradually and gently.
• Stick to a Routine: Sip every 10 to 15 minutes. Small amounts add up and are easier for your body to absorb.

These tips help you rehydrate slowly, which is often more effective than drinking a full glass and becoming sick again. Staying consistent is key.

What to Drink and What to Avoid ⁵

Knowing which fluids to choose is vital to staying hydrated with a stomach virus.

Best Hydration Choices:

• Sqwincher® products: Designed to replenish electrolytes lost through diarrhea, vomiting, or sweat.
• Coconut Water: Naturally rich in potassium and lower in added sugar.
• Ginger or Herbal Tea: Served cool, these can soothe the stomach while providing fluids.

Drinks to Avoid:

• Alcohol and Caffeine: These dehydrate your body even more and can irritate your stomach.
• Milk and Dairy: Gastroenteritis can temporarily affect lactose digestion, worsening nausea or diarrhea.
• Sugary Beverages: High sugar content can make diarrhea worse. Choose a low-sugar electrolyte drink like Sqwincher Zero® products instead.

To stay hydrated effectively, reach for fluids containing electrolytes, low in sugar, and easy to digest. Avoid drinks that could trigger more symptoms.

What to Do if You're Too Nauseated to Drink ⁶

If you're feeling too sick to drink water or other fluids, here are a few ways to stay hydrated during bouts of nausea.

• Rest Before Rehydrating: Wait 15 to 30 minutes after vomiting before trying liquids again.
• Suck on Ice Chips: This is a great way to ease back into hydration when swallowing feels difficult.
• Try Electrolyte Freezer Pops:freezer pops offer electrolytes in a frozen form that’s easier on the stomach.
• Use a Teaspoon or Oral Syringe: Small, measured amounts can help you pace your intake.

Keep trying even if you can only manage a few sips at a time. Your body may not absorb every drop, but every bit helps you move toward recovery.

When to Seek Medical Attention ^{7 8}

Sometimes, staying hydrated at home isn’t enough. Watch for signs of serious dehydration and seek help if you notice:

• Inability to Keep Fluids Down: Vomiting that continues for more than 24 hours.
• Signs of Dehydration Worsening: Dark urine, very little urine, dry mouth, extreme thirst, or lightheadedness. In children, look for no tears when crying or a sunken soft spot on the head.
• High Fever or Blood in Vomit or Stool: These are signs of a more serious illness and should be checked immediately.
• Prolonged Symptoms: If diarrhea lasts more than three to five days or if you feel worse after a week.
• Confusion or Severe Fatigue: Especially in infants, older adults, or anyone with a compromised immune system.

When in doubt, contact a healthcare provider. Dehydration can become serious quickly, so early action is always the safest choice.

Final Thoughts on Staying Hydrated

If you're dealing with gastroenteritis, the most important thing you can do is stay hydrated and replenish lost electrolytes. Stick to slow, steady hydration, use trusted electrolyte drinks like Sqwincher® products, and avoid fluids that can worsen symptoms. Understanding how to hydrate when you have diarrhea and vomiting can reduce the risk of complications and speed up your recovery. Keep sipping, stay patient, and give your body the support it needs to heal fully and bounce back faster from stomach flu symptoms. We hope you feel better soon!

Sources

1. https://www.mayoclinic.org/first-aid/first-aid-gastroenteritis/basics/art-20056595
2. https://www.bannerhealth.com/healthcareblog/better-me/5-tips-to-prevent-dehydration-when-you-have-diarrhea-or-vomiting
3. https://www.ummhealth.org/simply-well/care-for-vomiting-diarrhea-and-dehydration
4. https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/digestive-diseases/viral-gastroenteritis/eating-diet-nutrition
5. https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/what-to-eat-when-you-have-the-stomach-flu
6. https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/treating-stomach-bugs-best-solution-may-simplest-one-201606149799
7. https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/digestive-diseases/viral-gastroenteritis/symptoms-causes