How to Avoid Dehydration From Food Poisoning or Stomach Flu

Not all dining experiences are memorable for the right reasons. Did you know that a lot of people suffer from food poisoning each year? This can result from:

• Eating uncooked or undercooked meat or poultry products;

• Leaving food unrefrigerated for long periods; and

• Poor hygiene in the kitchen.

Symptoms of food poisoning can range from mild nausea and stomach cramps, to more severe vomiting, diarrhea, fever and general weakness. The most severe threat posed by food poisoning and stomach flu (due to the associated vomiting and diarrhea) is dehydration from the sudden loss of fluid and electrolytes. Be aware that dehydration can become serious very quickly, particularly with infants and the elderly. So don’t let this happen to you or your loved ones.

The common symptoms of dehydration include:

• Dry mouth

• Increased thirst

• Fatigue

• Dizziness

• Headaches

• Dark or reduced urine output

Senior pharmacist Colleen Brady warns, “When people are ill with vomiting or diarrhea, the main thing you have to do is treat the associated dehydration.”

The Public Health Agency of Canada recommends that those suffering from food poisoning should drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration – and the most helpful fluids are oral rehydration solutions, such as a product called Hydralyte.

Brady adds, “Replacing lost fluids and electrolytes with an oral rehydration solution is the most important aspect of managing dehydration associated with food poisoning.”

Oral rehydration solutions, she adds, are sold in pharmacies and contain the correct balance of sugar and electrolytes in accordance with the World Health Organization guidelines for rapid and effective rehydration. Oral rehydration freezer pops are also a great option for children or adults who are struggling to hold anything down – they are soothing and easily absorbed.

As dehydration can become serious very quickly in infants and young children, it is recommended that parents keep an oral rehydration solution in the family first aid kit (or in freezer) for when sickness strikes. Remember: Food poisoning isn’t confined to the opening hours of your local pharmacy.

The best advice is to be prepared. More information is available online at hydralyte.ca.

Source: Health Canada. Food Related Illnesses.

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