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Ways to Rehydrate With the Flu

Every year millions of people spend several days stuck at home and in bed combating the flu. Through watery eyes and a runny nose, people consume various pills and liquids in an attempt to get healthy and back on their feet as soon as possible. Dehydration is a common symptom of the fly, especially if the sick person is suffering from diarrhea or vomiting. Staying hydrated is crucial to the flu recovery process. If you start to feel dehydrated, there are several simple ways to rehydrate yourself.

  1. Drinking Water

    • When it comes down to it, drinking lots of water is the tried and true method to re-hydrating. When you have the flu, it helps to consume vitamin C and other electrolytes with your liquids, so adding an "Emergen-C" or other vitamin supplement to your water can be a good approach. Sports drinks like Gatorade are also a good way to rehydrate and provide your body with important vitamins and electrolytes. Juices, especially orange juice, are high in vitamin C and one of the healthiest things you can consume when suffering from a cold or flu.

    Oral Rehydration Therapy

    • If your body refuses to hold down water or other liquids, you may want to try oral rehydration therapy, also called oral rehydration salts or oral electrolyte solutions. These solutions, which can be found in most pharmacies or grocery stores and can be purchased without a prescription, replace nutrients and minerals lost during serious flu illnesses that water and other juices or sports drinks can't. Oral rehydration therapy is generally considered the best method for fighting dehydration caused by diarrhea, vomiting or both.

    Take it Slow

    • If you are having trouble keeping down liquids, you may want to try drinking several different things until your body responds positively. One good option is ginger ale, which helps calm stomach indigestion.

      It can also help to drink liquids slowly, taking small sips at spaced intervals. The body can deal more easily with these moderated amounts than it can large intakes of liquid.

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