Treating the Stomach Bug (diarrhea & vomiting)
- Alex Kelly
- Sep 9
- 3 min read
Understanding the Stomach Bug
The most common symptoms of a stomach bug are vomiting and diarrhea. While not fun, they serve a protective purpose.
The body is incredibly wise. When it detects harmful bacteria, viruses, or toxins in the digestive tract, it works hard to push them out as quickly as possible. Vomiting is the body’s way of ejecting unwanted pathogens before they can be fully absorbed, while diarrhea helps flush them through the intestines at a faster rate.
Instead of viewing these symptoms as the enemy, it can help to see them as part of the body’s natural cleansing process. The gut lining, immune system, and nervous system all work together to protect us by removing what doesn’t belong.
HYDRATION: Your Number 1 Focus
The biggest concern when it comes to the stomach bug is dehydration. Vomiting and diarrhea cause the body to lose fluids and electrolytes faster than they can be replaced, because of this your main focus should be replenishing those lost fluids and minerals.
DIY Electrolytes
1 qt liquid (water, green tea, herbal tea, coconut water)
1/8-1/4 tsp Himalayan or sea salt
1/2-1 tsp calcium magnesium powder
Squeeze of lemon, lime, or orange
1-2 Tbsp honey or maple syrup (for taste)
and/or 1/4 c organic juice (for taste)
Glorified B.R.A.T Diet: Your Number 2 Focus
The BRAT diet consists of bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast. These are gentle, easy-to-digest foods that can help soothe an upset stomach and reduce nausea. However, this recommendation is a bit outdated. Due to the lack of nutrients, the updated recommendation is to focus on pushing liquids and bland foods that still have nutrients like bone broth, yogurt, lean meats, and eggs.
From personal experience, I will say, I still usually only feel like eating toast (as do my kids). If that's the case, that's okay! In fact, there's benefits to natural fasting as well so the body can focus on immune function instead of digestion. This is often why we lose our appetite when sick. Isn't the body amazing?
What About Supplements?
When we are dealing with stomach bugs or any form of vomiting and diarrhea, personally I don’t stress too much about any added supplements - especially since they may just be expelled anyways.
I also don’t try and go over and beyond attempting to stop the vomiting and diarrhea. I want the body to eject the pathogens before they’re fully absorbed, but at the same time I also want to keep it under control as much as possible, as to not lead to severe dehydration.
My main focus is replenishing fluids and electrolytes, supporting the body’s natural function, rest and comfort measures.
Other Remedies to Consider
These bind to the toxin in the digestive tracts to help detox and prevent them from being absorbed into the body. One of our doctors recommends taking 1-2 Takesumi Supreme (or activated charcoal) every 2 hours, for adults. Our other doctor recommends taking just each time after you vomit or diarrhea. I say this to show that opinions vary in the medical community, and it is best to talk to your trusted provider - especially so when it comes to children.
Ipecec for vomiting with hypersalivation
Earthley Infant Tummy Relief (code: ALEXK10)
Earthley Feel Better Fast (code: ALEXK10)
Dr. Green Mom TummEase for Kids (code: ALEXKELLY)
Ginger Chews, Ginger Tea
Peppermints, Peppermint Tea
When to Seek Medical Attention
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