According to a recent report from NBCNews, cases of food poisoning in the United States are on the rise.
Although there has been a recent ‘crackdown’ on a number of slaughter houses, which has reduced the cases of some strains – there are other types of stomach bugs which are on the rise. Namely, Campylobacter, which is carried by chickens and can also be found in unpasteurized milk and cheese. “The FOODNet system documented 7,800 Salmonella infections in 2012, with 33 deaths. Nearly 7,000 people were diagnosed with Campylobacter infections, and six died.”
This leads us to an important question. How do you quickly recover from food poisoning on the road?
5 Tips to Recovering from Food Poisoning on the Road
1. Drink plenty of fluids. There’s a good chance you’re going to be stopped frequently, or for a period of time if you’re suffering from the common food poisoning symptoms – such as vomiting or diarrhea. In this situation, you’re going to want to do everything you can to hedge against dehydration. Drink plenty of fluids to keep hydrated, and also to help flush your system.
2. Try to get some quality rest. The more sleep you can get in this situation, the better. Try to get to sleep as early and as often as possible so that your body can get all the energy it needs to fight off toxins.
3. Avoid taking anti-nausea & anti-diarrhea medication. These types of symptoms are inconvenient – to say the least. However, these symptoms are mechanisms that your body uses to expel toxins – that being said, it’s best not to hinder the recovery process.
4. Avoid certain foods & beverages. You’re going to want to eat foods which are great for nutrient replacement such as rice, bread, broth, soup, vegetables, or fruit. Avoiding complex foods or those that alter your body’s chemistry such as meat, fats, spices, dairy, alcohol & caffeine.
5. See a doctor if symptoms become severe or prolonged. The Campylobacter infection has been known to be serious, especially to individuals who have weak immune systems. If you think you have been exposed to campylobacter bacteria, see your doctor.
Symptoms include:
- Diarrhea (sometimes bloody)
- Nausea and vomiting
- Abdominal pain and/or cramping
- Malaise (general uneasiness)
- Fever