Can Garlic Kill the Stomach Flu?

The term stomach flu is actually a misnomer.  The condition is actually gastroenteritis and can have many causes.  One of the causes could be viral, but it is not a type of influenza.

What happens in cases of stomach flu include irritation and inflammation of various parts of your gastrointestinal tract.  This can cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and other uncomfortable symptoms.  If you aren't able to take in enough fluids, it can also lead to dehydration.  This is particularly true of young children.

Because so many things can cause it, you should contact your doctor.  You will be given instructions about what to look for, what to do and when to come in for a check up.  The elderly and young children may need to be seen right away to avoid secondary problems such as dehydration.

Now, as to how to get over it.  In most cases, time is the only answer.  You may need supportive care, but most things you have to swallow will probably not stay in long enough to do any good.  This is especially true if nausea and vomiting are part of the equation.

You should ask your doctor in advance what to have on hand in case you or someone in your family develop this condition.  Most pediatricians recommend that parents keep oral rehydration fluids available at all times.  These are readily available without a prescription.

In the title of this article, the question was asked "can garlic kill the stomach flu."  In a word, no.  It would also be unwise to take garlic if you have any sort of gastrointestinal inflammation or inflammation, as it could make the situation worse.  Garlic may have some antiviral functions, but the irritation it causes after ingestion will be a hundred times worse.

There are a few things I keep around in case one of us develops this problem.  Oatmeal is one.  If there is no nausea or vomiting, try eating a bowl of plain oatmeal without milk or cream.  Do so slowly, as your body isn't going to want a lot of stuff hitting the stomach quickly.

Licorice is another possibility, but care has to be taken with it.  If you are diabetic, use DGL tablets, as there is a large quantity of sugar in this root.  Also, if you have high blood pressure, don't use it at all.  This remedy should not be given to young children.

Sports' drinks could be vital to preventing dehydration.  These were designed to give athletes an edge during sporting events and could help you keep your electrolytes balanced.  They usually contain a lot of sugar, so ask the doctor before beginning to use them.

It is a good idea to talk to your doctor or your child's pediatrician at the first sign of this condition.  Make sure the doctor knows of any pre-existing medical conditions as well as any medications/supplements you are on.  This can help you avoid any side effects or drug/herb interactions.

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