We’ve all had that dreaded 24–48 hours when life comes to a screeching halt thanks to the bug. You know the one – dashing to the loo, feeling decidedly green around the gills, and wondering if you’ll ever fancy food again.
Not glamorous, not fun, but thankfully short-lived.
So, while you’re curled up on the sofa in your comfiest pyjamas, here’s a light-hearted guide to what to sip, nibble, and pick up from the chemist to help you get back on your feet.
Sip, Don’t Guzzle
When your stomach’s in revolt, big drinks can feel like a bad idea. The trick is little and often.
Water – plain, boring, but the hero of the hour.
Rehydration sachets – Dioralyte or similar. Yes, they taste faintly of salty squash, but they work wonders.
Weak squash or watered-down juice – a gentle nudge of flavour without overwhelming your tummy.
Herbal teas – peppermint to soothe, ginger to settle. Think of it as a mini spa treatment… for your stomach.
The Return of Food (Slowly Does It)
When the thought of food doesn’t make you cringe, start with bland and gentle.
Dry toast or crackers – the ultimate comfort “non-food”.
Bananas – soft, easy, and packed with potassium.
Plain rice or pasta – filling without drama.
Clear soups or broths – warming, hydrating, and kind on the tummy.
Tip: Think nursery food, not spicy curry night.
What to Avoid (a.k.a. Don’t Do This to Yourself)
Greasy fry-ups – not your friend right now.
Dairy – milk and cheese can wait.
Alcohol & caffeine – that post-bug coffee or pint will taste better when you’re properly recovered.
Fizzy drinks – unless you enjoy feeling like a shaken-up bottle of cola.
Chemist Shelf Saviours
Sometimes a little over-the-counter backup is all you need:
Rehydration salts – boring but brilliant.
Paracetamol – for aches and fever.
Loperamide (Imodium) – useful if you have to leave the house, though usually it’s best to let nature take its course.
Antacids – for those “why is my stomach so gurgly?” moments.
Rest is Best
The only thing left to do? Rest, nap, and binge-watch something guilt-free. Keep a blanket handy, stay hydrated, and don’t even think about cooking for anyone else until you’re properly better (no one wants to share those germs!).
Most of us bounce back within a couple of days, and by then you’ll be more than ready for a proper meal again.
Bottom line: ride it out with fluids, bland bites, and rest. Before you know it, you’ll be swapping soup for Sunday roast again.
Incidentally the inspiration for this blogpost came when I was binge watching some Star Trek: Next Generation DVDs having fallen victim to the dreaded bug myself earlier in the day! I also managed to buy a couple of Original Series DVDs, too.