Stomach flu, or viral gastroenteritis, typically resolves on its own within a few days. However, several home remedies can help you recover more quickly. Staying hydrated, getting adequate rest, and gradually reintroducing food can support the healing process.

Stay Hydrated

Dehydration is a major concern during the stomach flu, especially for infants, children, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems. Fluid loss through vomiting and diarrhea must be replaced to prevent complications.

recommended fluids include:

  • Water

  • Broth

  • Juice

  • Sports drinks with electrolytes

In cases of more severe dehydration, especially in children, oral rehydration solutions like Pedialyte, Infalyte, CeraLyte, and Naturalyte may be necessary.

Get Plenty of Rest

Rest is essential for recovery. Sleep allows your body to fight off the infection and manage inflammation more effectively. On the other hand, lack of sleep may worsen symptoms or prolong illness.

Ease Into Foods Slowly

As your symptoms begin to improve, start with bland, easily digestible foods. Salty snacks like saltine crackers help replenish electrolytes and provide quick energy.

bland food options include:

  • Oatmeal

  • Clear broths and soups

  • Bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast (the BRAT diet)

Stick to bland foods for the first 1–2 days, then gradually reintroduce balanced meals that include carbohydrates, lean protein, and healthy fats.

Avoid Certain Foods

Some foods may irritate your digestive system or prolong symptoms during stomach flu. These should be avoided until recovery is complete.

foods to limit or avoid include:

  • Alcohol

  • Dairy products

  • Caffeinated drinks

  • Fermented items like pickles and sauerkraut

  • High-fat foods such as fried foods and fast food

  • Spicy or sugary foods

  • Raw vegetables and high-fiber items like broccoli, cabbage, and corn

  • Whole grains with high fiber content

Take Medications

Over-the-counter medications may help reduce diarrhea, but they are not appropriate in all cases. Avoid using them if you have a fever or notice blood in your stool.

common options include:

  • Imodium (loperamide): slows intestinal movement to reduce diarrhea

  • Pepto-Bismol (bismuth subsalicylate): can ease nausea, diarrhea, and gas

Always speak with a doctor before using these medications, especially in children, or if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking other medications.

Try Probiotics

Probiotics are beneficial microbes that support gut health. Certain probiotic supplements may help shorten the duration of stomach flu symptoms, particularly diarrhea.

probiotic strains that may help include:

  • Bifidobacterium infantis

  • Lactobacillus rhamnosus

Before starting any supplement, consult a healthcare provider to ensure it’s safe for your individual needs.

Common Symptoms of the Stomach Flu

Symptoms can vary in severity and may include:

  • Nausea and vomiting

  • Watery diarrhea

  • Abdominal pain or cramping

  • Fever

Dehydration is also a risk and may lead to:

  • Fatigue

  • Dry mouth or extreme thirst

  • Dark urine

  • Dizziness or fainting

  • Less frequent urination

  • Sunken eyes or cheeks

How Long Does the Stomach Flu Last?

The duration of the stomach flu depends on the virus causing the infection. It often begins abruptly and resolves within a few days.

typical virus timelines include:

  • Norovirus: 12–48 hour incubation, 1–3 days of symptoms

  • Rotavirus: 2-day incubation, 3–8 days of symptoms

  • Adenovirus: 3–10 day incubation, 1–2 weeks of symptoms

  • Astrovirus: 4–5 day incubation, 1–4 days of symptoms

When Are You No Longer Contagious?

Contagiousness depends on the specific virus. For example, norovirus may be present in your stool before symptoms begin and remain there for up to two weeks after you recover. This makes hygiene and sanitation essential for preventing spread.

How To Prevent the Stomach Flu

The viruses that cause stomach flu spread through contact with contaminated food, water, surfaces, or bodily fluids. Practicing good hygiene can significantly reduce your risk.

preventive tips include:

  • Wash hands frequently

  • Disinfect high-touch surfaces

  • Avoid preparing food while symptomatic

  • Avoid swimming in contaminated water

  • Get vaccinated (e.g., rotavirus vaccine for infants)

When To Seek Medical Care

In most cases, stomach flu resolves without treatment. However, medical attention is necessary for severe symptoms, especially those related to dehydration.

see a healthcare provider if you experience:

  • High fever

  • Bloody, black, or tarry stool

  • Persistent diarrhea (lasting more than 2 days)

  • Severe abdominal or rectal pain

  • Symptoms of dehydration like fainting, rapid heart rate, or confusion

  • Mental status changes

Infants, older adults, pregnant people, and individuals with compromised immune systems should seek care earlier to avoid complications.

Considerations for Infants and Children

Infants are at a higher risk for dehydration and may not be able to express their discomfort. Look for signs such as:

  • Crying without tears

  • Dry lips or mouth

  • No wet diapers for 3 hours or more

  • Sunken eyes

  • Unusual fussiness or sleepiness

Seek immediate medical attention if any of these signs are present.

A Quick Review

Although stomach flu is unpleasant, it often resolves without medical intervention. You can speed up recovery by resting, staying well-hydrated, and eating bland foods. Most people feel better within a few days. Seek professional care if symptoms worsen or if you experience signs of severe dehydration.